As children increasingly access the internet at younger ages, it presents both exciting opportunities and potential risks. At Cann Bridge School, our aim is to ensure that every child is safe online by equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to protect themselves.
How We Keep Learners Safe Online in School
Our IT systems are filtered and monitored using Smoothwall to minimise the risk of learners encountering inappropriate content. The school follows online safety and internet‑use guidance from trusted organisations, including:
- South West Grid for Learning
- The Local Authority
- Plymouth Safeguarding Children Partnership
- Our own ICT and Internet Acceptable Use, Social Media, and Online Safety policies
Learners do not use mobile phones in school, and all staff and visitors must follow our Mobile Phones Policy to maintain a safe and secure environment.
Online Safety in Our Curriculum
Online Safety is threaded throughout our Curriculum Rolling Long‑Term Plan, ensuring pupils build understanding and confidence over time.
Each Spring 1 term, the whole school takes part in a focused Online Safety theme. This includes:
- Dedicated learning activities across all classes
- A special Family Café, where families join us to explore online safety topics
- Staff CPD, ensuring all staff remain up to date with current guidance and best practice
Teachers guide learners to safe, appropriate websites, apps and software. Pupils are taught how to use devices responsibly and encouraged to report any inappropriate content or concerns – including cyberbullying – to a trusted adult.
We also regularly share online safety advice through our School Newsletters and on our social media pages, helping families stay informed about emerging trends and risks.
How Parents and Carers Can Support Their Child
Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children’s digital safety. With new apps, games and websites appearing regularly, it can feel challenging to keep up. The following tips can help:
- Keep open, regular conversations with your child about staying safe online.
Our Be SMART Online poster can be a useful discussion tool. - Supervise your child’s online activity or conduct occasional spot checks, including images, videos and social media use.
- Use safety and privacy tools available on websites, apps and social media platforms.
- Consider enabling parental controls on your home internet and on your child’s devices.
- Familiarise yourself with any device your child uses, including its safety features.
- Encourage your child not to accept friend requests or messages from people they do not know.
Reporting Online Safety Concerns
If you believe your child is in immediate danger, call 999.
For non‑urgent police concerns, call 101 or contact your local station.
If you suspect online grooming or sexual exploitation, report directly to CEOP via their website.
For school‑related concerns, including bullying or online incidents involving pupils, please contact your child’s class teacher or a member of the school’s Leadership Team.
You can also speak with us at any time if you have concerns about your child's online safety.
Safeguarding Team
Details of our Safeguarding Team are available on our Safeguarding Page. We encourage all parents and carers to refer to this page if they need guidance or wish to report a concern.
Further Online Safety Information:
NSPCC resources for learners with SEND
