DfE Digital Standards

Here’s how we can support your school in auditing, assessing, and implementing these vital standards

Comprehensive Digital Audit

Detailed Infrastructure Review: We will conduct a thorough evaluation of your existing IT infrastructure, including hardware (devices, servers, network equipment), software (learning platforms, administrative systems), and connectivity (broadband, Wi-Fi). This audit will identify your current capabilities and highlight areas needing improvement to meet the DfE standards. For example, we'll assess if your wireless network can reliably support the number of devices accessing it simultaneously, a key aspect of the "Infrastructure and Connectivity" standard.

Software and Systems Assessment: We will examine the software and digital platforms you currently use, ensuring they are fit for purpose, secure, and support effective teaching and learning as outlined in the "Digital Platforms, Tools and Content" standard. This includes evaluating the accessibility features of your learning management system and the security protocols of your student data management software.

Skills and Training Evaluation: Understanding the current digital literacy skills of your staff is crucial. We will work with you to assess the training needs of teachers and support staff to ensure they can confidently and effectively utilise technology to enhance teaching and learning, aligning with the "Leadership and Vision" and "Teaching and Learning" standards. 

Policy and Practice Review: We will review your existing digital policies, including Acceptable Use Policies, online safety protocols, and data protection measures, to ensure they are robust, up-to-date, and compliant with the DfE standards, particularly those related to "Safeguarding and Wellbeing" and "Security and Data Protection".

Gap Analysis & Standards Assessment

Detailed Standards Mapping: Following the audit, we will map your current digital landscape against the specific requirements of each of the DfE Digital and Technology Standards. This will provide a clear visual representation of where your school currently meets, partially meets, or does not yet meet the standards.

Prioritised Action Plan: Based on the gap analysis, we will work collaboratively with your leadership team to develop a prioritised action plan. This plan will outline specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to address the identified gaps. For instance, if your school's internet bandwidth is insufficient, the action plan might include researching and implementing a faster connection within a specific time frame.

Budgetary Considerations: The action plan will also consider budgetary implications, helping you to plan and allocate resources effectively to implement the necessary changes. We can provide guidance on potential funding opportunities and cost-effective solutions.

Implementation and Ongoing Support

Strategic Implementation Guidance: We will provide expert guidance and support throughout the implementation process, ensuring that changes are managed effectively and with minimal disruption to daily school operations. This could involve assisting with the procurement of new hardware or software, the configuration of network infrastructure, or the development of new digital policies.

Tailored Training Programs: Based on the skills evaluation, we can design and deliver bespoke training programs for your staff, empowering them to confidently integrate technology into their teaching practices and administrative tasks. This might include workshops on using specific educational software, online safety best practices, or data security protocols.

Policy Development and Review: We can assist in developing new digital policies or updating existing ones to align with the DfE standards and best practices. This includes crafting clear and concise Acceptable Use Policies for students and staff, as well as robust data protection and online safety guidelines.

Progress Monitoring and Evaluation: We will establish clear metrics to track progress against the action plan and regularly evaluate the impact of the implemented changes. This ensures that your school is continuously improving and moving towards full alignment with the DfE Digital and Technology Standards.

Ongoing Support and Advice: The digital landscape is constantly evolving. We can provide ongoing support and advice to ensure your school remains up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and any future updates to the DfE standards.

Don't let the Digital and Technology Standards feel like a burden. Let Techwise help you transform them into an opportunity to elevate your school's digital strategy.