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Safer Technologies for Schools (ST4S) is an initiative that helps you take the guesswork out of choosing the right technology.
About ST4S#
ST4S is led by us and our Australian peer jurisdictions. It gives you clear and consistent information about software products and how they align with privacy and security standards. Products that meet the minimum standards can display the trusted ST4S badge.
It makes your decision-making process simpler with detailed reports on how each product manages and protects data. These reports help you make informed choices, save you time and give you peace of mind.
Why use ST4S#
We understand how difficult it can be to review every piece of software your school uses. ST4S does this work for you by providing insights into the privacy and security controls of educational software.
We recommend schools use ST4S to inform decisions on software by understanding privacy and security risks. This is especially important when it comes to protecting student data.
Easy to use#
Schools can quickly see which products are badged on the ST4S website, without needing to log in.
Identify and reduce risks#
See where your school’s data could be vulnerable and take steps to protect it.
Save time#
Instead of spending hours researching, rely on ST4S to deliver the information you need.
Make informed decisions#
Confidently choose software that meets the security standards needed to keep students safe.
What ST4S reports include#
ST4S reports are easy to understand and cover:
- the types of personal information the software collects
- how well the software performs against privacy and security standards
- specific recommendations on how to reduce risks.
Each report gives you practical advice so you can take steps to better protect your school's data.
What products are covered#
You can find a list of ST4S-badged products on the ST4S website.
Verify a badge – Safer Technologies 4 Schools
More products are added regularly, as they complete the certification process.
ST4S focuses on software products used in the education sector but does not cover hardware providers.
How to access the ST4S reports#
You can access reports for both ST4S-badged products and those that have completed an assessment but do not have a badge.
For state and state-integrated schools, staff can access the ST4S reports on the Taku Education website with their Education Sector Logon (ESL). If you do not have access yet, ask your school’s delegated authoriser to set it up for you under the ‘IT and cyber’ role.
For help navigating Taku or to request a copy of a specific report, email us.
Email: [email protected]
For private schools, email us.
Email: [email protected]
Making decisions on software#
Using ST4S reports, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about the software you choose.
While ST4S does not endorse specific products, the reports can help you choose software that prioritises your school’s security and privacy needs.
How reports are created and ratings assessed#
Software suppliers undergo a self-assessment, answering questions on security, privacy and interoperability as well as how their products manage and protect data. Based on an expert review of their responses, ST4S provides a risk rating and creates a detailed report.
Products with a low-risk or medium-risk rating can apply for an ST4S badge, showing they meet security and privacy standards. This badge gives suppliers a competitive edge, as schools look for trusted products.
Help us identify new products for assessment#
If your school is considering or already using software that does not have the ST4S badge, let us know. We work closely with suppliers to help them complete the ST4S assessment, but we need your help in identifying and prioritising products.
Email us to register your interest in specific software products.
Email: [email protected]
