Data Protection

In this section you will find information and guidance about Data Protection

What are my obligations under the Data Protection Act 1998?

Under the Data Protection Act 1998 all schools processing personal data must comply with the eight enforceable principles of good practice. Data must be:

• fairly and lawfully processed
• processed for limited purposes
• adequate, relevant and not excessive
• accurate
• not kept longer than necessary
• processed in accordance with the data subject's rights
• secure
• not transferred to other countries without adequate protection

How can I contact the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)?

Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

What is Newcastle City Council's Data Protection Policy?

Newcastle City Council Data Protection Policy

Why is Biometric Data used in schools?

Schools choose biometric systems because they can speed up lunch queues; remove the need for children to take money into schools and remove any stigma with peers from pupils claiming free school meals because they are not identified. They also mean schools do not have to pay for the replacement of lost swipe cards and other identification. It reinstates schools' freedom to run their own affairs, including introducing new technology to free up teacher time and making day-to-day administration easier.

Becta - Guidance on Biometric Technologies in Schools

Related links

ICO - Your Rights, Responsibilities and Obligations to Data Protection

ICO - Access To Pupils Information Held by Schools