The importance of cyber security training in schools has never been clearer. A recent poll conducted by Ofqual has revealed alarming gaps in cyber hygiene across schools and colleges in England, putting both students and staff at risk.
With phishing attacks and other cyber incidents on the rise, educators are being urged to prioritise cyber security training to safeguard sensitive data and minimise disruptions to teaching.
The Growing Risk of Cyber Incidents in Schools
The findings of Ofqual’s poll, combined with a Teacher Tapp survey, paint a worrying picture. It was found that one in three secondary school teachers had not received any cyber security training in the last academic year.
This is a significant oversight, especially when nearly 34% of schools reported experiencing a cyber incident during the same period. These incidents range from phishing attacks to system failures that can cripple a school’s ability to function effectively.
As Amanda Swann, Ofqual’s Executive Director of General Qualifications, aptly stated,
“Losing coursework that is the result of many hours of hard work is every student’s nightmare. Even more distressing is losing a whole class or year group’s coursework because of weak cyber security on a school or college IT system.”
This sentiment is echoed by educators who have faced these challenges firsthand. One teacher recalled the chaos caused by a cyber incident, noting,
“From then on, all teaching staff were unable to access anything, so could not prepare for the year.”
Such incidents not only disrupt learning but also erode trust between schools, students, and parents.
Regional Disparities in Cyber Security
The survey also highlights regional disparities in how schools are affected by cyber attacks. For instance, the north-west of England saw 40% of schools hit by cyber incidents, compared to 28% in the east.
These incidents often lead to long recovery times, with 20% of schools reporting they couldn’t recover immediately, and some taking more than half a term to fully restore their systems.
Cyber Incidents by Region (2023)
Region |
Schools Affected by Cyber Incidents |
|---|---|
| North-West England | 40% |
| East of England | 28% |
| National Average | 34% |
Such statistics underscore the need for schools across the UK to adopt stronger cyber security measures. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has developed resources specifically designed for educational institutions, offering practical tips on how to protect against cyber threats.
The Need for Comprehensive Training
The absence of proper training is a major factor behind many of these incidents. The Teacher Tapp survey found that even among the two-thirds of teachers who had received cyber security training, only 66% deemed it useful.
This suggests that schools need to implement more effective and comprehensive training programmes. Proper training can help prevent phishing attacks, secure sensitive student data, and ensure that educational systems remain operational even in the face of cyber threats.
Some practical tips recommended by the NCSC include:
- Conducting regular phishing simulation exercises.
- Encouraging teachers to use strong, unique passwords.
- Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all systems.
These steps, along with ongoing training, can significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks in schools and provide a safer, more secure environment for both students and staff.
Prioritising Cyber Security in Education
The need for cyber security in schools is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. With more educational activities moving online, the stakes are higher than ever.
Schools and colleges must take immediate steps to protect their digital infrastructure, not only by upgrading their systems but also by ensuring that all staff are well-trained and prepared to handle potential cyber threats.
In Summary
As the world becomes more digitally connected, the risks will continue to grow. Schools that fail to invest in cyber security could face severe consequences, from lost coursework to damaged reputations.
By following the guidance of Ofqual and the NCSC, schools can stay ahead of cyber threats and provide a safer, more secure environment for learning.
For further guidance, educators are encouraged to visit the National Cyber Security Centre’s school resources page. This offers comprehensive tips on how to defend against common cyber attacks and build a culture of security within educational institutions.
