19/01/2026
At Scoil Barra, the safety and wellbeing of our children, families, staff, and the wider school community is always our top priority.
As a school, we have ongoing responsibilities under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 to ensure that all personal data — including photographs and images — is processed lawfully, fairly, and securely.
As the online environment continues to evolve, we are increasingly aware that images shared on websites and social media can be copied, stored, or repurposed beyond their original intention and outside the school’s control. In line with GDPR principles of data minimisation, purpose limitation, and child protection, Scoil Barra has made the decision to stop sharing identifiable images of children, staff and parents on our digital platforms going forward.
This decision has been made following careful consideration and reflection and is in keeping with guidance from the Data Protection Commission (DPC). As part of this process, we are currently reviewing and updating our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) to ensure it continues to reflect best practice in relation to online safety, data protection, and the responsible use of digital technologies within the school community. This change also reflects our obligation to act in the best interests of the child at all times. Please click on the following link to view a short videoclip which highlights the concerns around misuse and abuse of personal data online.
https://share.google/slzjofD53BV5G7JdL
Children will continue to be recognised, celebrated, and included in all school activities; however, this will be done without sharing identifiable images online
While our online content may look different, we will continue to acknowledge and affirm learning, achievements, and school life in Scoil Barra in a safe and respectful way by sharing:
Classroom work and displays
Children’s artwork
Projects, performances, and events (without identifiable faces)
School environments, resources, and activities
Assemblies and whole-school achievements
These changes apply to all school-managed platforms, including our website and our Instagram account and ensures that Scoil Barra remains compliant with data protection legislation while protecting the rights and dignity of all members of our community. Please note that we have decided to shut down the Scoil Barra account on the platform X due to the perceived lack of appropriate regulation and protection for account users.
We thank you sincerely for your understanding and continued support as we review our policies and adapt our practices to meet our legal obligations and to safeguard everyone in the Scoil Barra community.
Together, we keep Scoil Barra safe. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact the office on 021-4873459 or email us on [email protected]
Kind regards,
Martina Barry
Principal
With the "ShareWithCare" campaign, Deutsche Telekom wants to raise awareness for responsible handling of photos and data.
