Would your school or trust survive a cyberattack tomorrow? With hackers targeting education, digital safeguarding is just as crucial as physical safety. Without a solid strategy, your student data, staff security and operations could be at serious risk.

In a recent episode of the Cloud Design Box Podcast, Darren Hemming sat down with Philippa Wraithmell, Founder of EdRuption to discuss the growing importance of digital safeguarding in schools.

With cyber threats on the rise, and students spending more time online, safeguarding is no longer only about physical security, but about protecting students, staff and their data in the digital space.

About Philippa Wraithmell and EdRuption

Philippa has a rich background in supporting schools to build successful digital strategies, which led her to pen her book The Digital Ecosystem, where she explores the importance of having strong foundations, policies, governance and safeguards in educational systems.

Philippa founded EdRuption with the vision to bridge the digital divide in schools globally. The company empowers schools with resources, expertise and innovation to create a digitally literate and inclusive educational environment.

Why digital safeguarding matters

A digital safeguarding strategy is no longer optional – it’s essential.

Schools are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, from hackers targeting student data to the risks of unmonitored online behaviour.

The vast amount of personal data schools store makes them prime targets for cyber threats. From phishing attacks to ransomware, a lack of proper digital safeguarding can have devastating consequences.

“Aside from hospitals, schools are probably the biggest wealth of data and information – dates of birth, locations, where they’ve been born, what their parents’ names are,” Philippa points out.

“That’s why safeguarding has to include digital.”

Bridging the gap between IT and safeguarding teams

One of the key takeaways from the discussion is the need for collaboration between IT teams and safeguarding leads. Traditionally, safeguarding teams have focused on student wellbeing, while IT teams manage infrastructure and security.

However, these two areas must work together to address modern digital risks effectively.

Philippa explains:

“Your safeguarding team as a whole, and as a core unit, need to grow. Schools need to have their Head of IT sharing information about the firewall. What key words are coming up? What are students looking at?”

Contact Cloud Design Box today to learn how we can help your school or MAT build a safer digital environment.

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