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Having shaken up our employee Q&A, we’ve delved into our staff’s specialist subjects to gather more information about the powers of technology in the early years sector.

This time we’ve tasked our Head of infrastructure & security , Greg Reed, to tell us about keeping data security front of mind in the nursery sector. Here’s what he had to say…

What are the top three things you love about working in your role? 

• No two days are ever the same, which keeps things interesting. Sometimes my days are structured and follow a set plan, others feature unexpected issues that need solutions and questions that need answers. It certainly keeps me on my toes.

• I’m always learning. Working in technology, there are always innovations emerging. Whether it’s a brand-new solution, alternative infrastructure, or changes in security patching – keeping abreast of the latest developments ensures that the industry remains exciting. 

• Managing an excellent team. The people I work alongside are second to none. Not only do we get on tremendously, but there’s mutual respect which makes for a fantastic, collaborative environment. 

What inspired you to work in this area – both in an infrastructure and security capacity, as well as in nursery technology?

From a young age, I always wanted to work in Information Technology (IT). I was lucky enough to leave college and find a job relatively quickly, starting my first role at FH Browns nearly 30 years ago. At the time, IT was just emerging, which made it a particularly inviting choice. Later, I had a decision around whether to pursue the infrastructure or developer route – needless to say, I chose infrastructure which, at the time, was the most appealing option. 

My interest in the security side of things came about naturally as more and more devices became connected to the internet and it grew in importance – for both people and businesses. It’s such a crucial factor that many of us take for granted without realising what it takes to ensure that devices, and indeed the data contained by them, remains safe, secure, and functional. 

In terms of working in nursery management software specifically, having known Chris Reid, our CEO, for many years – his passion for the product and company he had created was plain to see and, ultimately, was what encouraged me to apply for the role.

And why is data security so important in the early years sector?

Working specifically with child data means that extra care needs to be taken to protect them and their identities. For this reason, it’s really important that nurseries have the very best systems in place, not only to keep youngsters safe, but to invite trust from parents who are placing their most treasured little people in their care. 

Safeguarding is embedded into every aspect of childcare settings, making it vital that we match, and wherever possible exceed, those high expectations with the software and service that we offer.  

Do you have any top tips for nurseries on how they can keep their data safe?

• Use secure, complex passwords and store them safely 
• Ensure that any devices used to access child data are up to date, to benefit from the most robust levels of security 
• Lock screens when away from devices so that child data cannot be accessed inappropriately
• Utilise individual permissions settings to ensure that data is shared only with authorised personnel
• Use trusted software from leading providers to benefit from the highest levels of protection, while minimising unnecessary paper trails which put important data at risk.

How does Connect’s technology help nurseries to keep their sensitive information safe from cyber-attackers, and deliver a great service to parents and children?

Our software is built with security in mind, so along with providing password protection, regular updates, individual permissions settings, and annual security audits, our servers are protected with antivirus software and intrusion detection systems. This immediately alerts us to any malicious attempts to infiltrate data. Weekly infrastructure scans search for unknown vulnerabilities, while an external firewall controls access to administrative services, too. 

As a trusted, leading provider of software, we take every precaution to keep our customers’ details safe – this includes DBS checks for all Connect employees, plus Cyber Essentials certification, with the team working towards enhanced accreditation and ISO 270001. This dedication to continuous progression and improvement, means that we retain the highest standards. 

Resilience is built into everything that we create, which means limited downtime for customers and fantastic service for the parents and children who frequent those settings. 

Connect’s childcare software combines everything nursery managers, practitioners, and parents need in one simple solution. Book a demo by calling 01282 507945, enquiring here, or visiting our website.

Or why not read more about data security in the early years sector, here.