Pupil data: the golden rules
In about 2 minutes, learn how to keep pupil data safe.
What you’ll learn
- What to use in class lists instead of surnames
- Which details never go in
- Where safeguarding concerns go
- What to do on a shared computer
Read the transcript
A few golden rules keep your pupils' data safe on Classfern. One. In class lists, use first names, initials or numbers.
Never surnames. Two. Never enter dates of birth, addresses, medical or SEN details, or anything about safeguarding.
Three. Safeguarding concerns always go through your school's own procedure, straight away. Classfern is not the place for them.
Four. Never type pupils' personal details into an AI tool. Write Pupil A instead.
And five. On a shared computer, delete pupil data when you've finished. Classfern keeps what you type on your own device, but these rules matter on every site you use.
Read the full guide on using the Report Writer safely. It's free, and you don't need an account.
A few golden rules keep your students' data safe on Classfern. One. In class lists, use first names, initials or numbers.
Never last names. Two. Never enter dates of birth, addresses, medical, special education or IEP details, or anything about child protection.
Three. Child protection concerns always go through your school's own reporting procedure, right away. Classfern is not the place for them.
Four. Never type students' personal details into an AI tool. Write Student A instead.
And five. On a shared computer, delete student data when you're done. Classfern keeps what you type on your own device, but these rules matter on every site you use.
Read the full guide on using the Report Writer safely. It's free, and you don't need an account.
Check what you know
Pick an answer to see if you’re right. Nothing is saved or sent.
Related help
- What is Ask Fern, and how do I use it well?
- How do I delete pupil data from the Report Writer at the end of the year?
- How do I get full names on reports if I only enter pupil numbers?
- What does the School Report Writer do, and where is pupil data kept?
Still stuck? Try the Help Centre, or use Report a problem at the bottom of this page.