Safe Use of Digital Technologies & CCTV Policy Example

Here's a comprehensive, sector-responsive policy and procedure framework for the safe use of digital technologies—including CCTV—tailored for early childhood education settings. It balances child safety, educator well-being, regulatory compliance, and ethical transparency.

Safe Use of Digital Technologies & CCTV Policy

Purpose

To ensure digital technologies (including CCTV) are used ethically, securely, and in alignment with child protection, privacy legislation, and sector standards. This policy supports safe learning environments, protects personal data, and promotes trust among children, families, and educators.

Policy Principles

• Child-Centered Safety: Technology use must prioritize children's safety, dignity, and developmental needs.
• Transparency & Consent: Families and staff are informed and consulted about digital tools and surveillance practices.
• Data Protection: All digital records are securely stored, accessed only by authorized personnel, and used for legitimate educational or safety purposes.
• Compliance: Practices align with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), NQF, and relevant state/territory regulations.
• Wellbeing-Driven: Technology must not replace relational practice or compromise educator wellbeing.

Procedures

1. Digital Device Use (Educators & Children)

• Devices (e.g., tablets, smart watches, cameras) must be used for educational documentation, communication, or safety—not personal use during work hours.

• All devices must be password-protected and logged in a digital asset register.

• Children’s access to digital tools must be supervised and developmentally appropriate.

• Educators must model respectful, safe digital behavior.

2. CCTV Installation & Use

• CCTV may be installed in entryways, outdoor areas, and communal spaces—not in bathrooms, sleep rooms, or private areas.

• Signage must clearly indicate CCTV presence.

• Footage is stored securely for a maximum of 30 days unless required for investigation.

• Only authorized personnel (e.g., Nominated Supervisor) may access footage.

• Families must be notified of CCTV use via enrolment forms and policy handbook.

3. Photo, Video & Audio Recording

• Written consent is required before capturing or sharing images/audio of children.

• Media must be stored securely and used only for documentation, learning stories, or internal training.

• No images may be shared on social media or external platforms without explicit family consent.

4. Cybersecurity & Data Management

• All digital records (e.g., child portfolios, incident reports) are stored on encrypted platforms.

• Staff must complete annual training on data privacy and cybersecurity.

• Breaches must be reported immediately to the Nominated Supervisor and documented.

5. Monitoring & Review

• Digital technology use is reviewed quarterly by leadership to assess ethical alignment and impact on practice.

• Families and educators are invited to provide feedback on digital practices.

• Policy is updated annually or in response to legislative changes.

Staff Responsibilities: Safe Use of Digital Technologies & CCTV

1. Privacy & Data Protection

• Ensure all digital records (photos, videos, documentation) are stored securely and accessed only by authorized personnel.

• Use password-protected devices and log out when not in use.

• Report any suspected data breaches or unauthorized access immediately to the Nominated Supervisor.

2. CCTV Awareness & Ethical Use

• Understand the purpose and placement of CCTV within the service.

• Do not use CCTV footage for informal review, personal use, or staff surveillance.

• Support families in understanding CCTV use by referring to policy documents and signage.

3. Media Capture & Consent

• Obtain and verify written consent before capturing or sharing any child’s image, video, or audio.

• Use media only for approved purposes (e.g., documentation, internal training).

• Avoid capturing images in sensitive areas (e.g., bathrooms, sleep rooms).

4. Device Use & Digital Conduct

• Use service-owned devices only for professional purposes during work hours.

• Refrain from using personal devices (e.g., smart watches, phones) unless permitted under service policy.

• Model respectful, safe digital behavior when using technology around children.

5. Professional Learning & Compliance

• Complete annual training on cybersecurity, privacy, and ethical tech use.

• Stay informed about updates to legislation and service policies.

• Participate in reflective discussions about the impact of digital tools on relational practice and pedagogy.

6. Family & Child Engagement

• Communicate openly with families about how digital technologies are used in the service.

• Respect family preferences regarding documentation and media sharing.

• Support children’s understanding of safe technology use through age-appropriate conversations and modeling.

Legislative & Regulatory Alignment Overview

National Frameworks

Privacy & Surveillance Legislation

Compliance & Ethical Practice

• CCTV must not be used for covert monitoring of staff or children. Its purpose must be clearly defined (e.g., entryway security, outdoor supervision).

• Digital documentation must be developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed, and consent-based.

• Staff must receive training on ethical tech use, privacy obligations, and data breach protocols.

• Families must be informed of all digital practices via enrolment forms, policy handbooks, and visible signage.

References:

National Regulatory & Legislative Frameworks

Sector-Specific Guidance