On 1 September 2025, the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance came into effect. This page summarises key updates and practical reminders for all staff, DSLs and school governors.
Last reviewed: September 2025
Update policies, websites and documents to refer to Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, not previous versions. This is often missed during annual updates.
No substantive changes for 2025. Staff working directly with children should continue to read at least Part 1 (or Annex A where appropriate at school discretion).
Schools should keep clear mechanisms in place to help staff understand and discharge responsibilities.
The "content" risk in the Four Cs now explicitly includes misinformation, disinformation (including fake news), and conspiracy theories.
Existing examples remain, with continued emphasis on a whole-school online safety approach.
Governing bodies and proprietors should maintain appropriate filtering and monitoring, and review effectiveness regularly.
The guidance signposts DfE filtering and monitoring standards and self-assessment support through plan technology for your school.
KCSIE 2025 signposts DfE material on generative AI product safety expectations to support safer use in education settings.
Settings should ensure proportionate e-security and consider action against the Cyber Security Standards for schools and colleges, with linked NCSC support.
KCSIE notes expected signposting to revised RSHE guidance and guidance on children who are questioning their gender if published.