The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA outline over 100 success criteria to make sure digital content is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
In the UK, schools are partially exempt from some of these requirements under the Government's guidelines, however, this does not mean that accessibility can be ignored. Schools must still take reasonable steps to ensure their websites are accessible and must publish an Accessibility Statement that is clearly visible and easy to navigate from any page on their site. Additionally, anything that is needed to allow your website audience to access your services, for example, forms, should be fully accessible.
While the Government’s exemption criteria leave room for interpretation, you may decide that it’s not currently viable to make all of your content accessible. We have compiled a list of common elements that you may want to consider:
- Colours.
- Tables.
- Links and Navigation.
- Images without text alternatives.
- Videos without captions or transcripts.
- Third-Party Content – Embedded content (for example, social media feeds and Google Maps) or third-party platforms outside the school's control are typically exempt.
If you are not making some content accessible, you must state this in the accessibility statement you publish on your website.
Our advice: Aim for accessibility
While exemptions exist, striving for accessibility is always best practice. Ensuring your website is inclusive benefits all users and, reflects positively on your school. We strongly encourage schools to enhance their website’s accessibility by following WCAG guidelines wherever possible.
Our expert training and support can help your school understand, implement, and maintain good accessibility practices - making your content accessible to all members of your school community.
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