Teaching children how to be safe online

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. Every class does a unit each year on internet safety.

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

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We understand that much of our pupil’s use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters and have shared some useful links below for parents and guardians.

The ICT Coordinator and Headteacher are responsible for the school’s online safety and make sure that:

  • Sophos virus protection software is used and updated on a regular basis
  • The school uses appropriate ‘firewall’ content filtering systems through our internet provider, 123ICT via businessband 6Mpbs with Exa Networks ADsl2+ broadband
  • The school works with 123ICT to ensure systems to protect pupils are subject to regular checks, to ensure that filtering methods are appropriate, effective and reasonable

123ICT are contracted to provide on a regular basis:

  • General website maintenance
  • Resolution of all connection issues
  • Upload apps/software as required
  • Resolution of any WiFi issues
  • Advice on purchasing equipment

Children are taught regularly and carefully how to stay safe online, and it is important that this continues at home.  You can report online abuse by clicking the CEOP button below:

 

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CEOP  (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre) works to protect children from harm online and offline, directly through CEOP led operations in partnership with local and international agencies. Their website offers further support in how and when to make use of this report function.