At Newdale, we use the Arbor Management Information System (MIS) to help manage pupil information securely and efficiently. Arbor now includes optional AI‑powered tools that help staff complete tasks more quickly — such as data analysis, drafting messages, or finding information inside the system.

Below explains clearly how AI processes data, where it goes, and how Arbor keeps your child’s information safe.

1. Your Child’s Data Remains Protected

Arbor confirms that any student or staff data processed by Arbor AI is not stored, not retained, and not used to train AI models. [support.ar…cation.com]

Only the minimum information required to complete a specific task is processed.

2. How the AI Process Works

When a member of staff uses an AI feature in Arbor:

1. Arbor checks permissions
   Arbor first checks what information the staff member is allowed to access within the MIS. [support.ar…cation.com]
2. Only necessary data is sent for processing
   Arbor sends only the data needed for that specific task to the AI model (for example, attendance numbers for a summary). [platform.s…areone.com]
3. AI produces a result
   The AI generates an output — such as a summary, draft message, or data insight — and sends it straight back into Arbor MIS.
4. Data does NOT leave Arbor systems permanently
   Arbor operates within UK‑hosted environments and maintains strict agreements to ensure data is handled securely and legally. [platform.s…areone.com]

3. Fully Compliant With UK Data Protection Laws

Arbor states that all AI features comply fully with:

• UK GDPR
• Data Protection Act 2018
• Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR)

This ensures data is processed lawfully, fairly, and transparently. [support.ar…cation.com]

4. No AI Decisions Affect Students Automatically

AI in Arbor is used only as a support tool.
It helps staff by providing suggestions, summaries, or draft information.

All decisions affecting students — including attendance, safeguarding, behaviour, or academic matters — are always made by school staff, not by AI.

5. What AI in Arbor Can Do

Examples of helpful tasks Arbor AI supports include:

• Drafting messages for staff to review
• Creating quick summaries about attendance or learning
• Helping staff find information quickly
• Offering guidance when setting up school processes
  [platform.s…areone.com]

These tools save staff time so they can focus more on children and learning.

6. What AI in Arbor Does Not Do

• It does not make decisions about children
• It does not store or keep copies of your child’s information
• It does not use school data to train external AI systems
  [support.ar…cation.com]

The Finance and Personnel Governors met on 9th February. They listened to a data update from the assessment lead and then focused in particular on Pupil Premium Grant (PPG) eligible pupil data. They were reassured that PPG children have a strong focus this year through targeted interventions and pastoral support.

The Governors examined this year’s budget closely, along with the year‑end predictions for next year. They discussed the ongoing pressures created by the high number of pupils with complex needs and the impact this continues to have on the budget.

They also reviewed the proposed staffing structure for next year and were satisfied that it reflects what the school can afford while remaining aligned with the needs of the school.