Online Safety

Our pupils are growing up in a world of ever-changing technology. While we feel that the use of technology is a largely positive aspect of modern life, we cannot ignore the risks that can be associated.
 
Throughout school we aim to teach children:
  • about the impact of cyber-bullying and what to do if they have been affected.
  • to be vigilant when communicating online recognising that people may not always be who they say they are and to be sensible about what they share.
  • to tell an adult they trust if something is upsetting them.
  • to question the reliability of information given through a web based source.
  • to search responsibly for information while using internet browsers.

Useful resources and links

Thinkuknow http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk
Thinkuknow is an education programme from the National Crime Agency’s CEOP Command. Since 2006, it aims to ensure that everyone has access to this practical information – children, young people, their parents and carers and the professionals who work with them. Further information about this can be found below.

Internet Matters https://www.internetmatters.org/advice/esafety-leaflets-resources/
A comprehensive web resource with a wide array of tips and advice on how to navigate the online world with your child. Some of their guidance we attach below but you can find even more by visiting the link. 

National Online Safety https://nationalonlinesafety.com/resources/platform-guides/
National Online Safety's mission is to make the internet a safer place for children. They aim to do this by equipping school staff, parents and children with the knowledge they need to understand online dangers and how best to react should an incident arise. The link above provides up to date information about a wide variety of social media apps and platforms your child might be using.

NSPCC http://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/share-aware/
The NSPCC are the first to admit that the internet is amazing. Children can play, learn, create and connect - opening up a whole world of exciting possibilities. But with the digital world changing all the time, how can you make sure your child’s staying safe? That’s where the NSPCC come in. Whether you’re an online expert or you’re not sure where to start, their tools and advice will help you keep your child safe.

Childnet http://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers
Childnet International is a registered UK charity that aims to make the internet a safe place for children and young people. Packed with resources it is a great resource for parents.

CEOP http://ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) is part of the National Crime Agency and their website can be used to report if you are worried about online abuse or the way someone is communicating online.

BBC  https://www.bbc.com/ownit
The BBC have a website and app called Own It. The website has a lot of content for children to help them navigate their online lives, and the free smartphone app comes with a special keyboard which can intervene with help and support in the moments that children need it the most.

SafetoNet https://safetonet.com/
SafeToNet is technology that educates children “in-the-moment” as they use their device. It is a safeguarding assistant that helps them become responsible and safe digital citizens. Its power lies in a smart keyboard that detects risks in real-time. It steers children away from trouble by filtering harmful outgoing messages before they can be sent and any damage can be done.

Thinkuknow Parents and Carers website
 
The Thinkuknow Parents and Carers website contains a wealth of information and advice for parents and carers on keeping their children safe online. Parents and carers can visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents for advice on topics such as: having a conversation with your child, using parental controls, understanding live streaming and supporting children who have been sexually abused.

The website is divided into three sections:

  • I need to report an incident - for information and support when something has already happened to a child or young person

  • I’m concerned about my child – for information and support when there are concerns about a child or young person

  • I’d like to understand more about keeping my child safe – for preventative information and advice on keeping children safe online
There is a button on the front page of the website which will take you out the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre.
How you can use ‘Jessie & Friends’ to help keep your child safer online

Parent Info (www.parentinfo.org) is a partnership project between NCA-CEOP and the parent organisation Parent Zone. It is a website and advice service for parents and carers, which aims to build the resilience of their children through articles, tips and advice. Articles are written by expert organisations on a range of different topics, covering all issues amplified by the internet.
The website is divided into the following categories:

* Games, apps and tech

* Parenting

* Safety and settings

* Relationships and sex

* Education and the future

* Health and wellbeing

Below are some links to websites which will help keep your children safe on the internet.