The Department for Education has now published Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2026, which comes into force on 1 September 2026. Whilst many of the changes are clarifications rather than major reforms, there are several important updates that schools should review and incorporate into their safeguarding and safer recruitment arrangements before the start of the new academic year.
The key changes are summarised below.
1. Changes to regulated activity and volunteer checks
One of the most significant changes relates to volunteers.
Following amendments introduced through the Crime and Policing Act 2026, volunteers undertaking teaching, training, instruction or supervision of children will now be engaged in regulated activity if they do so:
- Frequently;
- On more than three days in a 30-day period; or
- Overnight.
Where volunteers fall within regulated activity, schools must obtain an enhanced DBS certificate with children’s barred list information. Existing volunteers whose roles become regulated activity from September 2026 will also require appropriate barred list checks.
2. New terminology and references to AI-generated images
KCSIE 2026 strengthens references to the risks associated with AI-generated content.
The guidance now makes clear that nude and semi-nude images may include content created or altered using artificial intelligence, including so-called “deepfakes” and “deep nudes”. Schools should ensure staff understand that AI-generated imagery can form part of safeguarding concerns and should be responded to in the same way as other incidents involving image sharing.
3. Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) given greater prominence
The DfE has placed increased emphasis on harmful sexual behaviour (HSB), recognising it as a spectrum of behaviours that may escalate into sexual harassment or sexual violence.
The guidance highlights:
- The need for a zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment and sexual violence.
- The importance of early intervention in behaviours such as misogyny.
- The requirement to respond to all reports and concerns using a safeguarding approach.
- The need for DSLs to have a strong understanding of HSB and its indicators.
4. Updates to data protection references
KCSIE now references the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 alongside the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR, collectively referred to as “data protection laws”.
This does not create significant new duties for schools but updates the legislative framework referenced throughout the guidance.
5. Clarifications within safer recruitment
Part 3 contains several clarifications to safer recruitment requirements, including:
- Expectations regarding overseas checks for applicants who have lived or worked outside the UK.
- Confirmation of written assurances required when using supply agencies.
- Updated guidance regarding contractors, trainees, visitors and volunteers.
- Clarification on ongoing safeguarding vigilance after appointment and circumstances where further checks may be required on existing staff and volunteers.
Link to the latest guidance:
Keeping children safe in education 2026 (comes into force from 1 September 2026)
