Warnborough College (UK) achieved IS027001:2005 certification in October 2006, becoming the first college in the UK to achieve this status. IS027001 is the new international standard for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). This is a quality standard that IARC members should consider.
Information is one of the most critical assets of any organisation. It adds value to an organisation and consequently needs to be protected to ensure continuity, and minimize damage by protecting sensitive information so it remains secure by encompassing the right methodology of people, processes and IT systems.
This is particularly pertinent to educational institutions where confidential student’s records, faculty data, marketing strategies, IT systems, and management policies need to be protected against unlawful access, accidental loss or destruction. ISMS creates a framework to meet the requirements in the UK of the 1998 Data Protection Act, the Computer Misuse Act 1990, the Human Rights Act 1998, and the Copyright, Design and Patent Act. This framework is designed to be implemented anywhere in the world, and one that incorporates widely recognised best practice. Other countries will have their own requirements, but all will fall under the international standards of ISO.
Vice-President and ISMS team leader at Warnborough College, Dr. Julian Ng spent eight months preparing for the audit. He said, “Considerable effort was put into achieving this quality standard and reflects the dedication of our administration to keep abreast of regulatory requirements and to be at the forefront in seeking appropriate certifications for the college. Our stakeholders benefit from these achievements”.
Warnborough has a long history of commitment to academic quality, student welfare and staff development. Dr. Julian added, “This is another benchmark that is recognised internationally and one that colleges and universities throughout the world will seek to acquire as part of their quality assurance”.
President Brenden Tempest-Mogg said, “It is an honour to be the first educational institution in the UK to achieve this external certification, and will allow us to display the prestigious UK ‘Tick & Crown. Warnborough College achieved IS09001:2000 certification in 2004, and Investor in People status in 2005. ISO27001:2005 will ensure that our ISMS will underpin sound practices and the management of operational risks”.
If any IARC member would like to know more please contact : Dr. Julian Ng viceprez@warnborough.edu
To learn more: www.iso.ch www.ukas.com
Dr. Brenden D. Tempest-Mogg