Updates to Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE) 2023
The DfE has recently released the most recent version of the guidance, outlining a series of new changes and requirements for schools regarding their safeguarding responsibilities.
Although not as extensive as last year's update, it is important that schools are aware of the new recommendations and expectations for the academic year 2023/24.
UPDATES TO KCSiE
Safeguarding:
Disclosure of online searches to job applicants: In the previous update, it was recommended that schools conduct online searches of job candidates to identify any publicly available incidents or issues that may need further exploration during the interview process. The new guidance now explicitly states that schools should inform shortlisted candidates about the possibility of online searches as part of their due diligence checks.
Filtering and Monitoring:
The updated guidance includes three significant changes regarding online filtering and monitoring software used by schools to supervise students' internet activities:
- The designated safeguarding lead (DSL) now has the responsibility of understanding the filtering and monitoring systems and processes in place (paragraph 103, page 28).
- Safeguarding and child protection training at induction for all staff should include information about the expectations, roles, and responsibilities concerning filtering and monitoring (paragraph 124, page 32).
- A school's child protection policy should incorporate the use of appropriate filtering and monitoring technology on school devices and networks (paragraph 138, page 36).
These changes were prompted, in part, by the advocacy of Judy and Andy Thomas, who emphasised the importance of such technology in schools following their daughter's tragic suicide resulting from accessing inappropriate material due to a malfunctioning filtering and monitoring system. Ramsden suggests that while most schools already have systems in place, DSLs should review their safeguarding policies in response to these updates.
Handling Allegations Against Outside Organisations or Individuals:
Paragraph 377 on page 91 introduces a new aspect of the guidance, which addresses how schools should handle allegations made against external organisations or individuals using school premises.
This includes community groups, sports associations, or service providers involved in extracurricular activities.
The advice states that schools should follow their safeguarding policies and procedures, including informing the local authority designated officer (LADO), when such allegations arise.
The new version of the guidance is available here.
Confirmation Regarding Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Documents
To avoid confusion, a minor change has been made in paragraph 276. The updated wording clarifies that schools and colleges are not required to keep copies of DBS certificates to fulfill the duty of maintaining the single central record.
The 2023 version of KCSiE came into force on 1st September 2023.
References to New Standards:
Certain sections of the guidance have been updated to include links to recently published DfE guidance that can assist schools in specific areas.
For instance, paragraph 144 on page 38 advises schools to work towards meeting the cyber security standards for schools and colleges.
Additionally, on page 167, there is a new link to guidance on keeping children safe in out-of-school settings, which helps schools ensure that providers using their facilities adhere to the necessary safeguarding requirements.
Other Changes:
- Annex B: Children absent from education has been revised to reflect the difference between children absent from education and children missing education.
- Annex B: Forced Marriage reflects a change in law from February 2023.
- Annex B: Child Exploitation includes a new reference to multi-agency practice principles.