Update on the Use of Images and Online Content

At Scoil Chomhgháin Naofa the wellbeing and safety of our pupils, families, staff and wider school community is of central importance to us.

In line with our responsibilities under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, the school is required to ensure that all personal data, including photographs and images, is handled in a lawful, fair and secure manner.

As digital platforms and social media continue to change, schools must be mindful that images shared online may be copied, saved or reused beyond their original context and outside the control of the school. Having carefully considered these risks, and guided by the principles of data protection, child safeguarding and best practice, Scoil Chomhgháin Naofa has decided that identifiable images of children, staff and parents will no longer be shared on school managed digital platforms.

This decision follows reflection and review and is consistent with guidance issued by the Data Protection Commission (DPC). It also reflects our duty to always act in the best interests of the child.

The school is currently reviewing and updating its Acceptable Use Policy to ensure it continues to reflect good practice in relation to online safety, data protection and the responsible use of digital technologies within our school community.

While the appearance of our online content may change, pupils will continue to be recognised, celebrated and included in all aspects of school life. We will continue to share updates in a safe and respectful way, including:

• Classroom activities and learning experiences

• Children’s artwork, projects and displays

• School events and performances (without identifiable faces)

• Resources, achievements and general school activities

  
  

These measures apply to all school-managed platforms, including the school website, Facebook page and Aladdin. This approach supports compliance with data protection legislation while respecting the privacy, rights and dignity of everyone in our school community.

We thank parents and guardians for their understanding and continued support as we update our practices to reflect our legal responsibilities and commitment to safeguarding.