Online Safety

Online Safety

Our pupils are growing up in a world of ever-changing technology. While we feel that the use of technology is a hugely positive aspect of modern life, we cannot ignore the risks that it can bring to our young people.
 

Throughout our schools we aim to teach children:

- to tell an adult they trust if something they see something which upsets them online

- 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 question the reliability of information given through a web based source

- to search responsibly for information while using internet browsers

- not to share personal details online.

At Ladysmith we take online safety very seriously. Within the school network, all our computers and email systems are monitored to ensure our children stay safe online. The internet connection at school is filtered and protected using the most up to date technologies to help ensure that we provide quality access to the internet to enhance learning.
 

We have a comprehensive online safety policy along with acceptable use policies for staff and pupils, these are available to view on our school policies page.

 

We understand that much of our pupil's use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters. it is important that schools, parents and carers work together to take an active role in teaching children about online dangers. Learning how to act safely when using the internet is an incredibly important part of safeguarding our children. Most children today have access to the Internet through a variety of different devices, at home and at school – through phones, tablets, games consoles, laptops and PCs. They play games and use apps that allow them to chat with other children, share videos and photos and make in game purchases.

 

It can be hard to keep up to date with all the apps and games that are available to your children but we hope to be able to help you by providing information on this page. 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

Thinkuknow 
Thinkuknow is an education programme from the National Crime Agency’s CEOP Command. It aims to ensure that everyone has access to practical information – children, young people, their parents and carers and the professionals who work with them. 

Internet Matters 
A comprehensive web resource with a wide array of tips and advice on how to navigate the online world with your child.  

National Online Safety 
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. We have also shared some of these resources below.

NSPCC 
Tools and advice will help you and your family safe online.

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 
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 
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
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.

Please see below for some helpful guides to keep children safe online.