Information Requests

Brockton CofE Primary School

Freedom of information requests

The Freedom of Information Act relates to recorded information held by schools and other public bodies. It aims to provide a balance between greater openness and transparency on the one hand, while at the same time recognising the need to restrict or prevent disclosure were to do so would cause harm, put at risk the safeguarding of our pupils or would otherwise not be in the public interest.

The Freedom of Information Act requires that public organisations make certain types of information routinely and publicly available, with an appropriate guide so that the information can be easily identified and accessed by the general public.

What information can I request?
Under the Freedom of Information Act, you can request access to some recorded information held by the school.

The Freedom of Information Act is not intended as a way to obtain information that is routinely available, or for general enquiries, advice or guidance. Please check our website to find out whether the information you want to see is already available; or if you have a general enquiry, please contact the school office.

How do I make a Freedom of Information request?
You can make a Freedom of Information (FOI) request in writing by letter or email.

Your request should include your name and an address for our response (this can be an e-mail address). Please specify clearly what information you would like to access.Unfortunately, you cannot make an FOI request over the telephone.

When will I receive the information I have asked for?
Once we have received your request, and if we hold the information requested and there is no reason why we are unable to comply with your request (e.g., an exemption is engaged), we will send you the information within 20 working days (excluding school and public holidays), as required under the Freedom of Information Act.
Subject access requests
You have the right to ask an organisation whether or not they are using or storing your personal information. You can also ask them for copies of your personal information, verbally or in writing by submitting a subject access request (SAR).

If you have parental authority and the child is under 12 years of age, you can request copies of their personal data. Those with parental authority can also apply to the school to view an education record or receive a copy.

There are certain circumstances where an education record may be withheld; for example, where the information might cause serious harm to the physical or mental health of the pupil or another individual.

The request for access would also be denied if it would mean releasing examination marks before they are officially announced.

If you would like to make a subject access request please contact the school office stating clearly what data you require access to. If the request is made verbally we may request that you follow up your request in writing so that we can ensure a full understanding of what information is required. We may also request to see ID if we need to confirm your identity.

Once we have received your request we will contact you to arrange your access to the requested information within one month. If the request is complex or involves large amounts of information this time may be extended by up to an additional two months.