Recording, Photography, and CCTV Policy for Concordia International School Ningbo (CISN)

Introduction

At Concordia International School Ningbo (CISN), we prioritize the safety, privacy, and well-being of all students, staff, and families. To maintain a safe and respectful environment, we have established clear guidelines on the use of audio recordings, video recordings, photographs, and the handling of requests for access to the school's CCTV footage. These guidelines align with child protection, data privacy, ethical standards, and current Chinese regulations on privacy and surveillance. 

1. Use of Personal Devices for Recording

· No Recording of Others Without Consent

Parents,   students,   and   staff   are   prohibited   from   taking   audio   recordings,   videos,   or photographs of other children or staff without their explicit permission. This applies in all school  environments,  including  classrooms,  school  events,  and  common  areas.  This  policy protects privacy and ensures the safety of all individuals at CISN, following China's strict privacy laws, which prohibit unauthorized recordings. Violations may result in fines or other legal consequences under Chinese law.

· Consequences for Violation

Sharing  images,  videos,  or  audio  recordings  of  others,  especially  through  social  media  or messaging platforms, is a serious breach of privacy. If such materials are discovered, they must be immediately reported to school administration as a violation of child protection and privacy protocols. 

2. School Use of Images and Recordings for Marketing and Reporting

· Consent by Default for School Marketing and Reporting

CISN may take photographs or video recordings of students and staff during school events, classes, or activities for marketing, reporting, or internal purposes. By enrolling at CISN, parents and  guardians are  understood  to  consent  to the  school’s use  of  such  images  unless they explicitly notify the school in writing that they do not wish for their child to be photographed or recorded. 

· Opt-Out Procedure 

If parents or guardians do not wish their child to be included in photos or videos used for marketing  or  public  reporting  purposes,  they  must  inform  the  school  administration  by completing an opt-out form during the enrollment process or at any point thereafter. 

· Purpose and Use 

The photographs and videos will be used to promote the school via newsletters, the school website, social media, or external publications. Images will be carefully selected to reflect the positive aspects of school life and to celebrate student achievements. 

3. CCTV Usage and Monitoring 

· Purpose 

The school uses CCTV surveillance to ensure the safety and security of all students, staff, and visitors. CCTV cameras are placed in public areas such as hallways, playgrounds, entrances, and exits. Cameras are never placed in private areas such as restrooms, in accordance with privacy regulations. 

· Data Retention 

CCTV footage is securely stored for up to 3 months, in accordance with local government regulations,   after   which   it   is   automatically   overwritten   unless   retained   for   ongoing investigations or legal matters. 

4. Requests to View CCTV Footage

Parents may request to view CCTV footage if their child has been involved in an incident. However, due to privacy concerns, strict guidelines apply to such requests.

· Viewing Restrictions 

CCTV footage will only be made available when it directly concerns the safety or well-being of a student or staff member. Any footage showing other children or staff may need to be redacted or blurred to comply with privacy laws such as China's Personal Information Protection Law. 

5. Communication and Transparency 

Parents will be informed of this policy during the enrollment process, and it will be included in the school’s handbook and website. 

By adhering to these guidelines, CISN ensures a safe, secure, and respectful learning environment for all students and staff while protecting individual privacy in compliance with local laws.