As children increasingly access the internet at younger ages, it offers both exciting opportunities and potential risks. Our goal is to ensure every child’s safety online, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to protect themselves.
At Cann Bridge School, our IT Team filters and monitors internet use on computers and tablets, minimising the risk of inappropriate content access. The school adheres to Internet use and online safety guidelines provided by various organisations including the South West Grid for Learning, the Local Authority, Plymouth Safeguarding Children Partnership, and its Acceptable Use Policy. Pupils do not use mobile phones, and staff and visitors adhere to the ‘Use of Mobile Phones’ policy.
Within our curriculum, pupils learn how to stay safe online and use devices responsibly. Teachers guide students to appropriate websites, apps, and programs. Pupils are encouraged to report any inappropriate content, including cyberbullying, to a trusted adult.
How Can You Support Your Child?
Parents and carers play a crucial role in educating children about online safety and being a source of support if issues arise. Keeping track of the various sites and devices young people use can be challenging, so we offer the following advice:
- Maintain open conversations with your children about staying safe online. The ‘Be SMART Online’ poster can assist with this.
- Supervise your child’s online activities or conduct spot checks on their devices, including images, videos, and social media.
- Use safety tools available on social networks and other online services, such as Facebook privacy settings.
- Decide whether to use parental controls for your home internet.
- Familiarise yourself with devices and the parental control options they offer.
- Encourage your child to avoid accepting friend requests from unknown individuals.
- Reporting Safety Concerns
If you believe your child is in immediate danger, call 999. For less urgent concerns, contact 101 or your local police station.
If you suspect online grooming or sexual exploitation, report your concerns to the Child Exploitation & Online Protection Centre (CEOP) through their website.
For school-related bullying concerns, reach out to your child’s teacher or a member of the leadership team.
For more online safety information, visit the following websites:
Think U Know – https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/
Safer Internet – https://saferinternet.org.uk/
What Is Online Safety? https://swgfl.org.uk/online-safety/what-is-online-safety/
NSPCC resources for learners with SEND – https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/
Keeping Children Safe Online – https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-parents-and-carers/child-abuse-and-harm/keeping-children-safe-online
CEOP – https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
Online Safety Guides https://nationalonlinesafety.com/guides