Department of Education Update

The NSW Department of Education is changing the way students access school systems. From the start of Term 4 2025, students will be blocked by default from accessing any department system including things like their school email, the student portal, or online learning platforms from outside of Australia or using a virtual private network (VPN).

The change will better protect student privacy and the reputation of the
department
This is a new policy to help protect student’s privacy and reduce cyber security risks for
the Department of Education. We need to make sure our systems are as safe as they
can be.

Do not use a virtual private network (VPN) to access department
systems
VPNs can resemble unapproved overseas access or mirror cyber-criminal activity, where it might be used to create the appearance of being inside Australia. Students are not permitted use any remote access tool or VPN to access department data.Any student who uses a VPN at school or home to access department data will be
blocked by default and may have their account scrambled or locked.

What if my child is away on extended family leave?
We understand that some students may need to travel overseas for extended family leave. If this is the case for your child, the school can grant them an exemption to the new rule to make sure they can continue their learning. Please note if your child is on a family holiday or extended leave there is no expectation that the school will provide any new classwork whilst overseas.

To apply for an exemption, parent or carers can send a request to the school’s general email address. Once approved, your child will be able to access their school systems for the dates of their approved leave.

In related news, our Fort Street Year 12’s were in a Daily Telegraph article in regards to the HSC Legal Studies Exam, which focused on criminal activity overseas.The article is here to read.