ST4S 2026.1 Framework Now Available
We are excited to announce the release of the new 2026.1 ST4S (Safer Technologies 4 Schools) framework. This new version brings changes to child safety screening, clarifying whether support and/or emergency information is provided in applicable products as well as adjustments of some risk levels for authentication controls to ensure stronger alignment with Australian and New Zealand ISM.
With support from our working group members across Australian and New Zealand education jurisdictions, we have tried to further simplify question wording through minor adjustments across the Full Assessment and AI Module. The aim here is to remove ambiguity, making the ST4S assessment easy to understand for all suppliers.
Categories that have been enhanced
- Human Resources (HR) – Expanding on vendor personnel child safety screening where applicable.
- Product Functionality (PF) – Call out where applicable if monitoring or reporting tools are available to identify users who may require additional support
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Schools ability to manage and control AI features that are available to students.
- Access (A) – authentication and password controls have been strengthened and risk levels updated accordingly.
Framework Deprecation and Reassessment Requirements
The 2024.1 and 2025.1 frameworks will remain current. Framework version 2023.1 remains valid and is currently transitioning, while version 2022.2 and earlier are now deprecated. Organisations assessed against the 2022.2 framework will need to undergo reassessment to maintain a valid ST4S Assessment rating.
Please note that ST4S assessment outcomes are valid for two years from the date the final assessment report was issued.