Online Safety information for parents

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.

We understand that much of our pupil's use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters.

Below are a list of useful websites, advice and resources that you may find helpful when navigating the issue of online safety with your child. At the bottom of this page are resources that your child can directly access as well to help them learn about online safety.

Useful resources and links

Internet Matters Online safety leaflets to download | Internet Matters
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. 

Thinkuknow CEOP Education

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. 

National Online Safety https://nationalcollege.com/parents 

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 Keeping children safe online | NSPCC
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 Parents & carers | Childnet 

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 CEOP 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  Primary online safety for teachers
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 Home - SafeToNet

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.

A guide to Apps & Social Media

Net Aware, produced by O2 and NSPCC, is a guide for parents to 39 of the most popular sites, apps and games that young people use. Using reviews from adults and children, it helps parents decide if a site is right for their child, if it’s age appropriate and explores what risks they might encounter, enabling parents or professionals to help keep their children safe online. The NSPCC have just launched a refreshed Net Aware site.

The updated site is packed full of reviews of new and emerging apps such as Musical.ly, Periscope and Kiwi, as well as featuring big names such as Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat. It’s simple and easy to use, making it easier for parents to stay up to date with their child’s online world. It’s also available as an app.

The apps included are:

• Fortnite
• Instagram
• Snapchat
• YouTube
• Minecraft
• Clash of Clans & Clash Royale
• Kik
• Friv
• Dubsmash
• Wink
• YOLO
• TikTok

Resources for children to use

Below are some links that children themselves can access for help when navigating the tricky subject of online safety,

Reception – Year 2

Below are a number of links that are tailored for children in the younger year groups.
Click here for 'Think u Know' website 
Click here for 'NetSmartzKids' website
Click here for 'smartie-the-penguin' website

Year 3 – Year 6

Click here for 'Think u Know' website