We are pleased to confirm that we have successfully renewed our Cyber Essentials accreditation for 2026.
This certification independently verifies that we have robust technical controls in place to protect against the most common forms of cyber-attack – reinforcing our commitment to security, compliance, and safeguarding the sensitive information entrusted to us by schools and trusts.
While the accreditation is an important milestone, what matters most is what it means for our clients.
What is Cyber Essentials?
Backed by the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Cyber Essentials is a nationally recognised certification that demonstrates an organisation has robust controls in place to defend against the most common cyber threats.
In practical terms, it means independently verified protections are in place across areas such as:
- Secure network infrastructure
- Access controls and password management
- Device and software security
- Patch management and updates
- Malware protection
- Ongoing cyber risk management
Why does this matter when choosing a Consultancy?
Schools, Trusts and B&I sites are increasingly responsible for safeguarding significant volumes of sensitive information – from pupil and staff records, safeguarding documentation and financial data to supplier contracts and operational systems. Every third-party partner with access to that ecosystem becomes part of the wider security picture.
Working with a Cyber Essentials accredited consultancy offers several important advantages.
Added protection against common threats
Cyber Essentials is designed to defend against the most common forms of cyber-attack – including phishing attempts, malware, credential theft, and network compromise. Government estimates suggest these baseline controls help protect against around 80% of common cyber-attacks.
Stronger governance and GDPR assurance
Cyber Essentials is not a substitute for wider data governance, but it does demonstrate that an organisation has implemented appropriate technical measures to protect data – an important consideration under the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.
Reduced risk across your supply chain
Cybersecurity isn’t just about internal systems – it’s about the wider network of suppliers, consultants, and contractors you work with. Choosing accredited partners helps reduce supply chain risk and demonstrates a proactive approach to digital resilience.
It also helps reassure key stakeholders – including governors, parents, auditors, and regulators – that digital duty of care is being taken seriously.
Faster, easier supplier assurance
Cyber Essentials provides an immediately recognisable benchmark. Rather than lengthy security questionnaires or extensive verification processes, accreditation offers clear evidence that minimum cyber standards are independently validated – helping streamline procurement and supplier onboarding.
Get to know us more
For us, Cyber Essentials accreditation is part of a broader commitment to professionalism, governance, and responsible partnership. If you’d like to hear more about our approach and ethos, click here.
The Litmus team
