Blog post: Meeting the Core Digital Standards by 2030
Previously, the Department for Education (DfE) has published “recommended standards” for digital infrastructure in schools.
In the Academy Trust Handbook 2025, effective from 1 September 2025, there is a much larger emphasis placed on schools to take action, in an unambiguous requirement for them to meet a set of six standards:
“Trusts should have an understanding of, and be working towards, meeting the 6 core digital and technology standards by 2030.”
This follows updates to the digital and technology standards back in March this year, where requirements for upgrading and maintaining digital infrastructure in schools and trusts were categorised into 11 key areas:
- Wireless Network
- Broadband Internet
- Filtering and Monitoring
- Cloud Solution
- Network cabling
- Digital Accessibility
- Network Switching
- Servers and Storage
- Cyber Security
- Desktops, Laptops and Tablets
- Digital Leadership and Governance
What areas should schools prioritise?
It's important to be aware that you'll already be meeting some of the standards, by complying with legislation such as the UK GDPR and Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). The six core digital and technology standards that trusts need to meet before 2030 are as follows:
Broadband internet - Trusts must ensure that all schools have reliable, high-speed broadband that meets the demands of modern digital learning. This includes sufficient bandwidth for cloud-based services, video conferencing, and secure data access.
Network switching - Modern, secure network switching infrastructure is essential for managing traffic efficiently and protecting against internal threats. Trusts are expected to phase out outdated hardware and adopt scalable, secure solutions.
Wireless network - Schools should have robust, centrally managed wireless networks that provide seamless and secure connectivity across the entire site. This supports mobility, device management, and flexible learning environments.
Cyber security - With cyber threats on the rise, trusts must adopt a comprehensive cyber security strategy. This includes:
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Regular patching and updates
- Secure backups
- Staff training and awareness
- Incident response planning
Filtering and monitoring - To safeguard pupils and staff, schools must implement effective web filtering and activity monitoring systems. These systems should be regularly reviewed and aligned with DfE and UK Safer Internet Centre guidance.
Digital leadership and governance - Strong digital leadership is now a strategic priority. Trusts must appoint or develop leaders who can drive digital transformation, align technology with educational goals, and ensure compliance with national standards.
These standards are designed to ensure that schools and trusts are digitally secure, resilient, and equipped to support modern teaching and learning.
The key takeaways from the 2005 handbook are as follows:
- Trusts must now build digital leadership capacity at board level.
- Ransomware payments are banned. Prevention and response planning are the new non-negotiables.
- Renewed emphasis on digital infrastructure and cyber resilience.
Actions for schools and trusts to start working towards DfE compliance?
- Review your current digital infrastructure against the six standards.
- Use the DfE’s Plan technology for your school service to assess gaps and plan improvements.
- Engage your leadership team and governors in digital strategy discussions.
- Prioritise cyber security training for all staff and ensure your IT providers meet the new expectations.
Get in touch if you would like support getting started on your compliance journey.
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