Schools can't stop parents taking photos

Date published: 02 July 2010

Schools have been warned that they cannot stop parents taking photos of children by citing the ‘data protection myth’.

David Smith, of the Information Commissioners Office, said: “A photo of your child at their first school production or winning the 100m race on sports day preserves special memories. The Data Protection Act in no way prevents parents from taking such photos.

“A common sense approach should be taken to photography at school events. Photos for personal use, such as family albums, are not covered by the Act. Schools that cite the Act to prevent parents from taking photos are wrong.”

Father of three Danny Beer has no problem with other parents taking photos of his children: “Other parents have asked us if they can take photos of our kids at school parties, but they shouldn’t have to,” he said.

However, various schools do have policies in place with regards to taking photographs of pupils. On occasion parents do not want photos taken of their children and have to fill out forms to say whether or not they give permission for photographs or names to be taken.

Then, at group events such as Christmas plays and school parties, permission must be asked before taking photographs.