1. Introduction
St. Oswald’s Ladybirds Preschool CIO is committed to protecting and respecting the privacy of children, parents/carers, staff, and visitors. This policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018.
2. What Information We Collect
We may collect and process the following types of personal data:
- Children’s information: name, date of birth, address, medical needs, developmental records
- Parent/carer information: names, contact details, emergency contacts
- Staff information: employment records, qualifications, DBS checks
- Website data: names, email addresses (via contact forms), and cookies
- Photographs and videos: used for learning records or promotional purposes (with consent)
3. How We Use Your Information
We use personal data to:
- Provide childcare services and ensure children’s safety and wellbeing
- Communicate with parents/carers
- Maintain required records for safeguarding and legal obligations
- Improve our website and services
- Comply with regulatory requirements, including those from Ofsted
4. Lawful Basis for Processing
We process personal data under the following lawful bases:
- Legal obligation – to comply with childcare and safeguarding laws
- Contract – to provide childcare services
- Consent – for photos, marketing, and certain communications
- Legitimate interests – to operate and improve our services
5. Data Sharing
We may share information with:
- Local authorities and safeguarding agencies
- Healthcare professionals where necessary
- Regulatory bodies such as Ofsted
- IT and service providers (e.g. secure software systems)
We do not sell personal data to third parties.
6. Data Storage and Security
We take appropriate measures to protect personal data, including:
- Secure digital storage with password protection
- Locked filing systems for paper records
- Restricted access to authorised staff only
Data is retained only for as long as necessary, in line with legal requirements.
7. Your Rights
Under data protection law, you have the right to:
- Access your personal data
- Request correction of inaccurate data
- Request deletion of data (where applicable)
- Restrict or object to processing
- Withdraw consent at any time
To exercise these rights, please contact us using the details above.
8. Cookies and Website Use
Our website may use cookies to improve user experience. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.
9. Photographs and Media
We will always obtain written consent before using photographs or videos of children for:
- Learning journals
- Displays within the setting
- Website or promotional materials
You may withdraw consent at any time.
10. Complaints
If you have concerns about how your data is handled, please contact us first. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact:
Becky Dutton
stoswaldsladybirdspreschool1@outlook.com
07980 420232