Helping Schools Make Safer Software Choices

A new policy and assessment reports will help schools make safer choices about the selection and use of third-party software.

Safer Technologies for Schools (ST4S) risk assessment reports are available for over 180 software products and services via the Arc Software platform. The reports include privacy and security ratings as well as advice on how to minimise risks when using third party products or services. The Summary report provides a risk summary and the full ST4S report provides details and risk treatment actions.

This is supported by the new ICT Software in Schools Risk Assessment policy. Schools must apply this policy before purchasing, renewing, or using software products or services.

Upcoming webinars will help school technology leaders understand how to apply the policy and in using these new resources.

ST4S is one of a range of initiatives as part of the Securing Connected Learners program. This program aims to help schools manage current and evolving cyber security threats, reduce the impact of incoming child safety regulatory obligations and enhance technology services in schools.

The program includes improvements to internet bandwidth, content filtering, cyber threat detection, multi-factor authentication for student management systems and transitioning schools to department-managed collaboration platforms by the end of 2028. Refer to the program site in the link below.

Find out more

View software assessments on Arc Software (department login required)

Read the related School Update online article (department login required)

Read the new policy on PAL - ICT Software in Schools Risk Assessment policy

Read more about the program at Securing Connected Learners (department login required)