Cookie Policy

Wycombe High School Academies Trust

Last Updated: July 2026

1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how Wycombe High School Academies Trust (“the Trust”, “we”, “our” or “us”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website.

This policy should be read alongside our Website Privacy Notice, which explains how we process personal information collected through our website.

By continuing to use our website, you acknowledge that cookies may be used in accordance with this policy. Where required by law, we will seek your consent before placing non-essential cookies on your device.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your computer, tablet, mobile phone or other device when you visit a website.

Cookies help websites function effectively and can:

  • Remember your preferences.
  • Improve website performance.
  • Enable security features.
  • Provide website analytics.
  • Enhance the user experience.

Cookies cannot access information stored elsewhere on your device and generally do not identify you personally.

3. Types of Cookies We Use

Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential for the operation, security and accessibility of the website.

Without these cookies, certain website functions cannot operate correctly.

Examples may include:

  • Session management.
  • Security and authentication controls.
  • Load balancing.
  • Cookie preference settings.

Because these cookies are necessary, they do not require your consent.

Functional Cookies

These cookies allow the website to remember choices you make and provide enhanced functionality.

Examples may include:

  • Language preferences.
  • Accessibility settings.
  • User preferences.

These cookies will only be used where you have provided consent.

Analytics and Performance Cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so that we can improve content, navigation and overall user experience.

Information collected may include:

  • Pages visited.
  • Time spent on pages.
  • Traffic sources.
  • Device information.
  • General geographic location.

Analytics information is generally aggregated and does not directly identify individual users.

Examples may include:

  • Google Analytics.
  • Microsoft Clarity.
  • Other website analytics services.

These cookies will only be used where you have provided consent.

Third-Party Cookies

Some content or services embedded within our website may place cookies on your device.

Examples may include:

  • YouTube videos.
  • Social media content.
  • Mapping services.
  • Online forms.
  • Embedded content from third-party providers.

These third parties have their own privacy and cookie policies, and we encourage you to review them.

The Trust does not control cookies placed by third parties.

4. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to:

  • Ensure the website operates correctly.
  • Maintain website security.
  • Remember user preferences.
  • Improve website performance.
  • Measure website usage.
  • Identify technical issues.
  • Improve accessibility.
  • Enhance users’ experience.

We do not use cookies to make automated decisions that have significant effects on individuals.

5. Managing Cookie Preferences

When you first visit our website, you will be presented with a cookie banner allowing you to:

  • Accept all cookies.
  • Reject non-essential cookies.
  • Choose individual cookie categories.

You can change your preferences at any time by selecting the Cookie Settings link available on our website.

Most web browsers also allow you to:

  • View stored cookies.
  • Delete cookies.
  • Block cookies.

Set preferences for certain websites.

Please note that blocking certain cookies may affect website functionality.

6. Browser Controls

You can manage cookies through your browser settings.

Guidance is available from the following providers:

  • Google Chrome
  • Microsoft Edge
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Apple Safari

Further information can be found on the browser provider’s website.

7. International Transfers

Some analytics, hosting or website service providers may process information outside the United Kingdom.

Where this occurs, the Trust will ensure appropriate safeguards are in place in accordance with UK data protection legislation.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy periodically to reflect:

  • Changes in legislation.
  • Changes to website functionality.
  • New technologies or services.
  • Regulatory guidance.

The latest version will always be published on our website.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy, please contact:

Data Protection Officer
Wycombe High School Academies Trust
Marlow Road
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire
HP11 1TB

Email: dpo@whs.bucks.sch.uk
Telephone: 01494 523961

10. Further Information

Further information about cookies and online privacy can be obtained from:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
Website: https://ico.org.uk

For information about how we process personal information, please read our Website Privacy Notice.