GDPR – Data Protection

On the 25th May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)  replaced the Data Protection Act 1998 and came into effect across the EU. The GDPR is a piece of EU-wide legislation which will determine how people’s personal data is processed and kept safe and the legal rights individuals have in relation to their own data. ‘Personal data’ means information that can identify a living individual.

The regulation applies to all schools from 25 May 2018 onwards. This has changed how schools manage personal data and how this is protected and shared.

At Gaskell Community Primary School we collect and use personal information about staff, pupils, parents and other individuals who come into contact with the school. This information is gathered in order to enable the school to provide an effective service and other associated functions. In addition, there may be a legal requirement to collect and use the information to ensure that the school complies with its statutory obligations. We already highly value and protect all of our pupils, parents and staff data and will continue to do so in the presence of GDPR. Anyone with access to your child’s records is properly trained in confidentiality issues and is governed by a legal duty to keep their details secure, accurate and up to date. All information that we hold about your child is held securely and appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent accidental loss.

As a parent/carer you may receive some letters from us regarding GDPR. Some of those may be about consent and some about updating your information with us. We would appreciate it if you would read all information you receive and send back any relevant documents back to school. We have appointed a Data Protection Officer who will advise on compliance with the GDPR and other relevant data protection law.

Our Data Protection Officer (DPO) is Mrs Gillian Smith.

For more information about GDPR, visit the ICO Website.