8.2              Confidential Material

Computer Stored Data

Personal data which is stored on computer is covered by the Data Protection Act, 1988. The school, as the custodian of such data, has a legal obligation to:‑

a)      keep it securely;

b)      make it available on demand to the person to whom it relates and to correct any errors which that person may point out.

References

References contain a confidential assessment of a person’s suitability for a position. The referee, who writes a reference, does so in confidence and is usually candid in her/his assessment of the subject.

Any breach of the confidentiality of a reference by the recipient is entirely unacceptable.

Board of Management Business

The Deed of Trust commands confidentiality of all Board business. In practice much of Board business is routine and decisions are conveyed to staff and parents by their Board nominees. However, comments of individual members at Board meetings or accounts of how individual members voted should not be reported under any circumstances. (See 2.17 above).

Addresses and Telephone Numbers of Staff and Students

The addresses or telephone numbers of teachers or students should not be divulged to third parties. If a third party wishes to contact a teacher or a pupil, they should be asked to write to them at the school. If necessary, such letters can be re-addressed and forwarded.