CCTV Policy

1. Purpose of CCTV

Golden Rose Sewing School uses CCTV to create a safe, transparent, and secure environment for all learners, visitors, and customers. Cameras are installed for two clearly defined purposes: 

• Safeguarding and safety in the classroom — to protect children and vulnerable learners, to evidence accidents or incidents, and to support the safety of a practical workshop environment where tools and machinery are used.

• Crime prevention and security in the shop area — to deter theft, protect stock and equipment, and ensure the safety of staff and visitors.

CCTV is not used for staff performance monitoring.

2. Legal basis

CCTV is operated under the Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR, and the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice. Golden Rose Sewing School is the data controller for all recorded footage.

The lawful basis for processing is legitimate interests, specifically safeguarding, safety, and crime prevention.

3. Camera locations

Cameras are positioned to cover:

• The classroom/workshop area

• The retail shop floor

• Entry and exit points

No cameras are placed in private areas such as toilets or changing spaces. Cameras do not record audio.

4. How footage is used

Footage may be used to:

• Review accidents or incidents involving children or adults

• Respond to safeguarding concerns

• Protect staff from false allegations

• Investigate theft, damage, or suspicious behaviour

• Support police investigations where required

Footage is not used for teaching evaluation or monitoring how learners work.

5. Access to footage

Access is strictly limited to the owner of Golden Rose Sewing School (Sarah). Footage may be shared externally only when:

• Required for safeguarding purposes

• Requested by the police

• Required by law

Parents or individuals may request to view footage of themselves or their child, where appropriate and where it does not compromise the privacy of others.

6. Storage and retention

Footage is stored securely and automatically deleted after 14–30 days, unless it is needed for an ongoing safeguarding or security investigation.

7. Signage and transparency

Clear signage is displayed at the entrance and within the premises to inform all visitors, customers, parents, and learners that CCTV is in operation.

Parents of children attending classes receive this policy as part of the onboarding information. 

8. Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA)

A DPIA has been completed to ensure CCTV use is necessary, proportionate, and compliant with data protection law. The DPIA is reviewed annually or whenever the system changes.

9. Contact

For questions about CCTV or data protection, please contact:

Sarah Hamblett  

Owner & Data Controller 

Golden Rose Sewing School 

sarah@goldenrosesewingschool.co.uk