Data Protection Training - One 'Byte At A Time' - March 2024
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Bitesize training is quick, focused, and satisfies your learning appetite without leaving you feeling overwhelmed. This approach is ideal for busy educators who might find it challenging to set aside extended periods for professional development.

It’s far easier to retain information when it’s presented in small, digestible portions – aligning with our natural engagement levels to maximise learning effectiveness. This approach also reduces stress levels, as participants can rest assured that they will have ample time to address urgent tasks, allowing them to fully dedicate their attention to the training experience.

This is exactly why we’ve been developing bitesize learning programmes for the Cantium schools we support with our Data Protection Officer Service (DPOaaS). Instead of dedicating large blocks of time to training sessions, educators and support staff can watch pre-recorded bite-sized learning sessions between classes or during short breaks. Then, they can attend live Q&A sessions with their Data Protection Officers and fellow schools.

Data protection training is crucial for safeguarding the sensitive information held by schools and ensuring compliance with regulations. In today’s digital age, where schools are increasingly becoming targets for cyber threats and data breaches, the importance of robust data protection measures cannot be overstated.

Our latest session focused on the key topic of data breaches. The ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) says that individuals should understand how to recognise a personal data breach and understand that they aren’t only about the loss or theft of personal data. The ICO states that a personal data breach means:

“A breach of security leading to the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to, personal data. This includes breaches that are the result of both accidental and deliberate causes. It also means that a breach is more than losing personal data.”

The most common yet costly, data breaches in schools include;

  • Copying the wrong recipient to a sensitive email
  • Attaching an incorrect document
  • Sharing spreadsheets where sensitive information hasn’t been removed or hidden
  • Screen sharing when sensitive data is still visible

Our bitesize training shares some more common examples of data breaches to be aware of, explains what to do next if a breach occurs, and runs through practical prevention strategies.

Training equips staff with the knowledge and skills to recognise and mitigate potential security threats. This is essential in safeguarding student and staff data from unauthorised access or exposure and is one of the most crucial tools in reducing the risk of a breach.

It is not just the Data protection lead’s responsibility to ensure their training is up to date. Everyone at a school needs to understand and follow the policies and procedures for handling personal data and lead by example in how they handle the data in their care.

To find out more about the data protection training we offer, speak to a member of our team today.