Cyber security threats should be high on schools’ agenda

Addressing cyber security threats with as much urgency and focus as any health and safety risk is the way forward for schools, Kristine Scott, head of our education sector, has said in a White Paper published by Endsleigh Insurance.

Endsleigh’s survey of independent schools showed that although 61% had experienced a cyber attack in the last five years, only 39% believed that their school would be a target, highlighting the gap between risk and perception. Kristine and her team contributed to the White Paper because of their nationally-recognised expertise in the sector.

She said: “Nearly all schools will have a committee (usually at governor level) that looks at risk, and the assessment of digital risks should ideally be made a standing item on the meeting agenda.

“The fact that only 39% of those surveyed review their cyber resilience on at least a monthly basis is a concern, especially given that the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) at the majority of schools will look at other risks as part of day-to-day management functions.”