A teacher’s checklist for classroom websites and privacy
New classroom tools appear constantly. Before you put one in front of a class, a few quick questions will tell you most of what you need to know about how it treats pupils’ data.
Why it matters
Schools in the UK must handle pupils’ personal data carefully, and many have a list of approved tools. This checklist helps you think before you click. It is practical guidance from teachers, not legal advice; always follow your school’s data protection and online safety policies, and ask your Data Protection Officer if unsure.
1. Does it need an account?
The fewest risks come from tools that need no sign-up. If pupils must create accounts, ask what personal details are collected, who can see them and how they are deleted.
2. What is stored, and where?
Some tools keep everything in your browser, on your own device. Others upload data to a server. “Stored on your device” means that clearing your browser’s data removes it, and nobody else holds a copy. For a class list, prefer first names or initials.
3. Does it use the microphone or camera?
Your browser must ask permission, and a trustworthy tool says plainly what happens to the sound. A noise monitor, for example, can measure volume live without recording anything. Check the tool says it is never recorded or sent.
4. Cookies, analytics and adverts
Look for a clear cookie banner with a real Decline option, and a cookie policy that explains what is set. Adverts on pupil-facing pages deserve extra caution.
5. Who is behind it?
A good site has an About page, a privacy policy, a way to contact the maker, and a date it was last updated. Be wary of tools that hide who runs them or ask for more data than they need.
6. Questions to ask your school
- Is there an approved list of classroom tools?
- Who approves a new tool, and how long does it take?
- Can I use tools that need no personal data without approval?
- Where should I record a tool I have used?
How these tools measure up
The tools on this site need no accounts, keep what they save (class lists, scores, settings) in your own browser, and record no audio. Read our privacy policy and cookie policy for details, and tell us if anything is unclear.
Frequently asked questions
Is this legal advice?
No. It is general guidance. Follow your school’s policies and ask your Data Protection Officer about specific tools.
Is browser-only storage safe?
It keeps data off the internet, which removes many risks, but anyone using the same browser profile could see it. Clear it when you finish, and use initials where you can.
Do these tools record audio?
The tools on this site do not use the microphone at all. Hush Habitat and Note Reading Practice, which have optional microphone features, process sound live on your device and do not record it.