Essential Cybersecurity Practices for Students and Teachers

Technology lies at the heart of the education sector. In the learning environment and beyond, students and teachers rely heavily on online platforms, software, gadgets and complex research systems.

Within this digital space, cyber threats are unfortunately more prevalent than ever before. According to a report by the government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, more than 7 in 10 secondary schools reported a security breach in 2024. 

With such widespread risk, here’s how those learning and working in schools can stay safe.

Why does cybersecurity matter in education?

Online safety is a critical aspect of safeguarding for children and young adults.

Schools, colleges and universities handle lots of sensitive information, including personal details for every student enrolled and every member of staff. Under relevant GDPR legislation, these must be protected against threats, stored safely, and disposed of accordingly.

And securing digital systems is directly related to keeping children physically safe too. By protecting access codes and restricted areas, schools ensure that access is strictly by authorisation only. This ensures that only qualified, trusted individuals can interact with young people. 

How can schools promote cybersecurity?

1. Require two-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication means that when a login is attempted, the user receives official communication on another linked account or device.

It’s a certain way to guarantee that the person requesting access is the genuine user and not a cybercriminal. This can be incorporated in schools through email accounts.

2. Create strong passwords

Next, it’s worth encouraging students and teachers to set strong passwords for their online accounts. This reduces the risk of online hacking, which could be incredibly detrimental to a wider school network.

If your students need access to shared accounts for educational resources, a free password manager ensures easy access for authorised users.

3. Know the risks of public Wi-Fi

Schools should only use one trusted network with a secured sever. This includes installation and maintenance by IT professionals, which is the only way to guarantee a safe and stable internet connection across the school premises. Students must be taught how to use this – and advised not to join public networks, which cannot be trusted.

4. Secure all devices

From personal mobile phones to school-issued computers and tablets, all devices should be protected against online threats and hackers. This includes setting passwords on all lockable devices and keeping them physically safe too. Many schools now require pupils to hand in their mobile devices at the start of the day to limit their online access.

5. Build a culture of cyber awareness

Finally, it’s every school’s responsibility to ensure that pupils know the risks of using the internet. From identifying phishing emails to avoiding sharing personal details, the fundamental rules for online safety should be in place and easily memorable for everyone.

With a proactive approach and a safety-conscious culture, both students and their teachers can use the internet productively, appropriately, and securely.