E-Safety
We value computing within our school and encourage our children to experience different ways of accessing mobile technology. From laptops and iPads through to games consoles and e-readers, our children are able to access a wealth of resources and explore different technologies to suit their learning styles. The e-safety of our children is of paramount importance to the school and something that we monitor and revisit regularly.
We know that parents and carers are concerned about protecting children when they are using the Internet, both in school and at home. Below you will find information on how to keep your children safe, tips on how to initiate conversations around the subject of e-safety and specific advice on online gaming. We have also included various links that will direct you to further information from external organisations.
Here is a short video animation, from The Digital Universe of Your Children. It has been created by European Schoolnet (host organisation of Insafe), together with Liberty Global, to help educate parents on children's safety online.
Internet Matters gives you options to select particular devices you may want to protect, so for example if you want specific information on setting controls on a playstation there is information with simple step by step pictures to help you do so.
The Internet is like a magician's hat. If you're worried what your children will find inside, the free advice will help you to keep them safe online.
The Vodafone Digital Parenting Guide covers every area of the modern web and mobile Internet you can think of; from apps and games to location services and online videos. If your online knowhow needs a bit of a refresh, or if you're just keen to know the tricks to staying safe, look no further.
Net Aware is a simple guide for parents to the most popular social networks, apps and games. Learn about the privacy settings and safety guidelines for Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and more. You can also read up-to-date reviews from parents and children for each app, game and social network.
Internet Safety Websites
|
Thinkuknow for Parents |
Childnet International |
|
Childline |
NSPCC |
|
KidSmart |
BBC Own It
|
|
Digizen |
Get Safe Online |
|
Parent Info |
Parent Zone |
|
Safer Internet Day for Parents |
CEOP |
Social Media Support
The minimum age to open an account on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, Kik and Snapchat is 13. YouTube requires account holders to be 18, but a 13-year-old can sign up with a parent's permission. You can find support about the safety features available on these popular social networks below.
|
YouTube |
|
|
TikTok |
|
|
Snapchat |
|
|
|
MovieStar Planet |
|
ASKfm |
UK Safer Internet Centre |
We also have some social media checklists that you may find useful below:
Search Engines for Children
KidRex is a fun and safe search for kids, by kids! KidRex searches emphasise child related webpages from across the entire web and are powered by Google Custom Search and use Google SafeSearch technologies.
Swiggle.org.uk is a website aimed at Key Stage 2 learners. It links to a wealth of learning and e-safety resources and includes a safe search feature. It also provides children with easy access to key educational resources, either in the classroom or at home. Swiggle is provided by the South West Grid for Learning.
Safe Search Kids is powered by Google to deliver filtered search results.
.
.
Video Games and Apps
The Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) age rating system was established to help European parents make informed decisions on buying computer games. It was launched in Spring 2003 and replaced a number of national age rating systems with a single system now used throughout most of Europe, in 30 countries. Further information can be found on the PEGI website.
Ask About Games has useful information for parents about playing safe online.
There are thousands of apps on the market. From gaming to socialising. From learning to creating. All targeting a different audience.
If you're worried about the apps your children are using, head to Net Aware. It's a site that O2 have developed with the NSPCC, using real reviews from O2 staff and customers to explain over 50 social networks and apps mostly used by children.
Net Aware won the best product or service for parents award at the first Digital Safety Awards. This is a brand new awards scheme that recognises the best products, services and initiatives that help keep children safe online.
Mobile Phones
More and more children are using smartphones, but as a parent do you know what they are doing on them? Vodafone and carphone warehouse have advice on what to do if you are unsure.
Want to know more?
Find more information about the curriculum we teach and how we can support you with Internet Safety on our Questions & Answers page.
What to do if you're worried...
If you're worried about anything online you can speak to an adult that you trust with your concerns. Mrs Cole is the Designated Safeguarding Lead within school. Mr Bond is the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and an Ambassador Trainer for CEOP. If you don't feel confident with speaking to somebody at home or in school, click on the CEOP button below and report your concerns in confidence. If you're a parent with any concerns regarding your child, you can also click on the button below to report your concern to the child exploitation and online protection command (CEOP).
