What’s New in KCSIE 2025?

KCSIE 2025: Key Safeguarding Updates Schools Must Know

The Department for Education (DfE) has released the first look at Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025, with updates that come into force on September 1st, 2025. This blog summarises the most important changes and what they mean for your safeguarding responsibilities.

 What’s New in KCSIE 2025?

1. RSHE Guidance Update

• A revised Relationships, Sex, and Health Education (RSHE) guide is expected this summer.

• Schools should prepare for new references in KCSIE once the RSHE guidance is published.

  
  

2. Online Safety: Misinformation & AI

• The “content” risk category now includes misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories.

• New links to DfE’s Generative AI safety expectations and AI in Education guidance help schools manage emerging digital risks.

3. Filtering, Monitoring & Cybersecurity

• Updated standards now include:

  • Plan technology for your school

  • Cybersecurity standards

  • Support from NEN and NCSC

4. Alternative Provision (AP)

• Expanded guidance requires:

  • Written safeguarding checks from AP providers

  • Half-termly reviews of placements

  • Immediate action if safeguarding concerns arise

5. Attendance & Vulnerable Pupils

• Clarification that Working Together to Improve School Attendance is now statutory.

• Virtual School Heads must now promote achievement for children in kinship care.

6. Gender Questioning Children

• Anticipated guidance will be signposted in September 2025.

• Schools should stay alert for updates on this sensitive safeguarding area.

7. Cass Review Alignment

• Terminology updated to match the SEND Code of Practice, removing “spectrum disorder”.

 Safer Recruitment Updates

• TRA Secure Access references replaced with Check a teacher’s record.

• Governor checks now link to the list of individuals prohibited from managing schools.

 Staff Allegations & Harmful Behaviour

• Updated reference to the Information Commissioner’s Employment Practices Code.

• New resource: Shore Space – confidential support for young people with harmful sexual behaviour concerns.

 Additional Resources

• New links from the CSA Centre and Children’s Society to help staff identify and respond to child sexual abuse and exploitation.

 What Schools Should Do Now

• Review your safeguarding policies and digital safety provisions.

• Prepare for integration of RSHE and AI-related guidance.

• Ensure AP and recruitment processes align with new standards.

• Stay informed on upcoming statutory updates.