ST4S_v3_1

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Digital tools are transforming the way we teach and learn, opening new opportunities for engagement, creativity and inclusivity. Naturally, schools often focus first on how well a tool supports teaching and learning, its core functionality.

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However, with cyber attacks on schools on the rise, digital safety has become just as important.

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Schools and their communities want to know that their technology partners are doing the right thing, protecting students, respecting their privacy, building products with care.

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So how do they decide who to trust? That's where Safer Technologies for Schools, or St. 4S comes in.

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ST4S provides independent assessments of digital products, privacy and security practises managed by Education Services Australia on behalf of the New Zealand Ministry of Education and our Australian counterparts. Is ST4S ensures products meet regional standards. It helps schools and CUDA identify Ed tech products that meet strong, consistent standards for digital security, privacy, online safety, and accessibility.

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And it gives suppliers like you a clear way to demonstrate your commitment to protecting student data and delivering safer, more trusted tools.

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Today, schools are seeking reassurance that the tools they choose continue to meet evolving privacy and security expectations.

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In a crowded edtech market. The St. 4S badge helps your product stand out, giving schools the confidence that your product has been independently assessed against trusted standards, including New Zealand government requirements for suppliers. St. 4S isn't just about meeting a bar. It's about building confidence with educators, with school leaders, with boards, and with communities.

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It can help streamline conversations, reduce privacy questions and help move decisions forward faster.

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And importantly, suppliers tell us the process is good for business.

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It prompts deeper thinking about product design, strengthens internal systems, and ultimately improves the product itself.

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So how does the assessment work? Getting started is easier than you might think. It begins with an optional readiness check, a short online survey based on the St. 4S Vendor Guide. You can download it from the website. When you complete the survey, you'll get feedback on how ready your service is for a full St. 4S assessment.

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From there, if you're confident your product meets key criteria, you can request prioritisation by the St. 4 Working Group, A team of privacy and security experts from across education in New Zealand and Australia.

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If selected, you'll be invited to complete the full assessment, a more detailed questionnaire supported by documentation and evidence.

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You'll receive a draught school facing report including a preliminary risk rating, low, medium, high or non compliant, with the opportunity to clarify findings before the final report is issued. Schools can then access these reports to see how products perform against key privacy and security criteria, with clear recommendations for managing risk.

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If your product is rated low or medium risk, you can apply to display the St. 4S badge, a visible signal that your product meets high standards. Participation is free and support is available throughout the process.

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So what exactly is assessed?

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Step 4 E takes a comprehensive approach covering 5 key areas,

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Security,

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how well your product protects against digital threats through encryption, access controls, hosting, secure coding, incident response and governance.

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The goal? A system that's robust, well managed, that will help keep school data safe.

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Privacy

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How responsibly and transparently your product handles personal information With strong privacy policies, user access controls, and compliance with privacy laws. This will all help schools feel confident about student data protection

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interoperability. Step 4S looks at data formats, APIs, and how securely and reliably it integrates with other systems, making it easier for schools to adopt

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safety.

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How your product protects users with features like safety by design, content moderation and age appropriate settings.

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Artificial Intelligence

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if your product uses AI, St. 4S chicks governance, data privacy, technical safeguards and ethical practises, especially when student data or automated decision making is involved.

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These are just a snapshot of what an St. 4 assessment covers. The full St. 4S assessment provides detailed feedback on how your product measures up against important security and privacy standards.

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The process can also help you identify improvements that strengthen your product overall.

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So why now? Cyber attacks on schools are increasing?

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Digital safety is a top concern for educators, parents and school boards.

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Schools are asking tougher questions and increasingly they're choosing products that have already been assessed.

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In fact, several Australian states now require St. 4S assessments for edtech products used in schools.

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If you're a New Zealand supplier aiming to expand across the Tasman, completing St. 4 isn't just helpful, it's essential. Starting now will help your product stand out in New Zealand and Australia and will position you well for future growth.

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Suppliers who have completed the process report real results, increased interest from schools, stronger client relationships and better, safer products. So where do you begin?

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Start with the readiness check. You'll see exactly what's needed and how close you already are to meeting St. 4 standards.

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Visit st4.edu dot au today and take the first step toward building trust, standing out, and protecting what matters most.