Leading the Way from the Llŷn Peninsula: Ysgol Edern's Digital Milestone

The very first organisation in Wales to adopt the new digital WASPI sign-up process was not a large government department or health organisation. It was Ysgol Edern—a small, rural school nestled in the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd, led by Headteacher Ilan Williams.

This achievement demonstrates how WASPI helps collaboration and facilitates safe, lawful information sharing across all types of organisations, large or small that deliver public services in Wales. By becoming the first signatory to utilise the newly digitised system, Ilan Williams and Ysgol Edern have shown that robust data protection and the welfare of children go hand in hand and ought to be a priority for all Welsh schools.

The WASPI framework’s move away from cumbersome paper-based formats to streamlined digital processes was designed to remove bureaucratic hurdles. Ysgol Edern has proven exactly why this digital shift is so vital. By signing the Accord, Ysgol Edern has demonstrated that the Accord makes a tremendous difference in safeguarding the children of Wales.

Ilan Williams said " We are incredibly proud to be the first organisation in Wales to use the new digital sign-up process. As a rural school, Ysgol Edern is at the heart of our community and we have a frontline role in safeguarding and ensuring that every child gets the right support. This often calls for schools to work closely with our partners in health and social care. Signing the WASPI Accord gives us the confidence to share critical information legally, securely, and without delay”.

Speaking about the new digital sign-up process, Ilan said that it “very straightforward, allowing us to formalise our commitment to WASPI in minutes. We’ve pioneered this, so let’s hope that all schools follow Ysgol Edern and sign up!”

Schools can participate with the Accord here.

The photograph shows Headteacher Ilan Williams with Louise Jones, Gwynedd Schools Data Protection Officer.