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UK schools often rely on CCTV systems for safeguarding, monitoring, and site security. But when someone submits a Subject Access Request (SAR) under the UK GDPR, schools must respond properly - especially if the request involves CCTV video footage.
UK schools often rely on CCTV systems for safeguarding, monitoring, and site security. But when someone submits a Subject Access Request (SAR) under the UK GDPR, schools must respond properly - especially if the request involves CCTV video footage.
This article explains how school staff should respond to SARs, ensure GDPR compliance, data protection, and manage CCTV footage appropriately. If your school captures video that includes identifiable individuals (students, parents, staff), that footage counts as personal data.
This article explains how school staff should respond to SARs, ensure GDPR compliance, data protection, and manage CCTV footage appropriately. If your school captures video that includes identifiable individuals (students, parents, staff), that footage counts as personal data.
FAQs: CCTV & Subject Access Requests in Schools
FAQs: CCTV & Subject Access Requests in Schools
1. What is a Subject Access Request (SAR)?
1. What is a Subject Access Request (SAR)?
A SAR is a formal request by an individual (or their parent/guardian for minors) to access the personal data your school holds about them - including CCTV footage.
2. Does CCTV footage fall under GDPR in schools?
2. Does CCTV footage fall under GDPR in schools?
Yes. If a person is identifiable in the footage, it is considered personal data under the UK GDPR. This includes video showing faces, uniforms, vehicles, or other identifying information.
3. How long do schools have to respond to a SAR?
3. How long do schools have to respond to a SAR?
Schools must respond within one calendar month from the day the request is received. You may ask for proof of identity before processing the request.
4. Can we provide raw CCTV footage to the requester?
4. Can we provide raw CCTV footage to the requester?
No, not without redacting third-party individuals. You must protect the rights of other students, staff, or visitors who appear in the footage. That’s where CCTV redaction comes in.
5. What is CCTV redaction?
5. What is CCTV redaction?
CCTV redaction is the process of blurring or masking people, screens, or identifying features in video footage to protect privacy. This ensures you comply with GDPR while fulfilling a SAR.
👉 Explore our GDPR-compliant CCTV redaction service for schools
6. What if multiple people are in the footage?
6. What if multiple people are in the footage?
If you can’t separate the subject from other individuals, or redact the footage safely, you may refuse to provide it - but you must explain the legal basis clearly in your response.
7. Who can make a SAR in a school setting?
7. Who can make a SAR in a school setting?
Students over 13 (if deemed competent)
Parents or guardians (in most cases)
Staff members
Always confirm who the request is about and their legal right to the data.
8. How can we prepare for SARs involving CCTV?
8. How can we prepare for SARs involving CCTV?
Limit CCTV retention periods (30 days is typical)
Log footage access
Have a redaction plan in place
Work with a professional CCTV redaction provider
For futher information 👉 See the ICO’s official SAR guidance
Why CCTV Video Redaction Matters in Schools
Why CCTV Video Redaction Matters in Schools
Schools are especially sensitive environments where privacy is critical. Failing to properly redact third parties in CCTV footage can lead to:
Schools are especially sensitive environments where privacy is critical. Failing to properly redact third parties in CCTV footage can lead to:
GDPR breaches
ICO complaints
Loss of trust from parents and staff
Aquarius Creative provides fast, secure, and GDPR-compliant CCTV video redaction services tailored for schools and education providers.
CCTV SAR Checklist for Schools
CCTV SAR Checklist for Schools
Summary Checklist for Schools Responding to CCTV SARs:
Summary Checklist for Schools Responding to CCTV SARs:
✅ Confirm the identity of the requester
✅ Locate and review relevant CCTV footage
✅ Redact third-party individuals
✅ Respond within one month
✅ Keep a record of the request and response
Need Help With CCTV Video Redaction?
Need Help With CCTV Video Redaction?
If your school receives a SAR involving CCTV footage, don’t risk non-compliance. Aquarius Creative can help you redact footage accurately and efficiently..
👉 Explore our CCTV Redaction Services
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About Aquarius Creative
About Aquarius Creative
Aquarius Creative is based in the UK and was incorporated in 2003. As a sole proprietor, my company gives you the benefit of personalized attention and dedicated service.
With no large team to navigate through or hierarchy to manoeuvre, you can feel confident that your CCTV Video Redaction needs will be addressed promptly and efficiently.
This direct line of communication ensures clear understanding of project goals, quick turnaround times, and a personalised touch tailored to your individual needs.
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