Our children love to use the internet especially to play games and to communicate with their friends. The way they start using computers and the guidance they are given at this young age can set them on the right path to being safer in later life.

At our school we use internet filtering provided by Agile Internet to control what our children can see online and we ensure that our children are taught the basic tips of Internet Safety in every year group and we regularly hold Internet Safety Days.

Our internet safety advisor is Paul Hay and his website provides advice about hot topics or trends for children and young people online and important links to advisory websites on how to keep children safe online and how to talk to them about any worries or concerns. There is a particularly good animation for children that is appropriate to the infant phase.

You can access the website here:  www.pclstraining.com/links

Paul is also happy for parents to contact him with any questions you may have.

paul.hay@pclstraining.com

We also use a cartoon which was created by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection agency (CEOPs).

You can see the cartoon by clicking here.

It tells the children the 4 Top Tips they need to remember.

• Top Tip 1 : People you don’t know are strangers. They’re not always who they say they are.
• Top Tip 2 : Be nice to people on the computer like you would in the playground.
• Top Tip 3 : Keep your personal information private.
• Top Tip 4 : If you ever get that ‘uh oh’ feeling, you should tell a grown-up you trust.

Click here to download and print your own poster

We have also held sessions for parents. It is important for all parents to learn about how children use the internet so they can carry on the discussion with their own children at home.

"Digital Parenting" magazine

An organisation called Parentzone have created a great magazine for parents to help them understand how young people use the internet and provide help. We have distributed hard copies to all pupils/parents. There is also a link if you would like an electronic copy:

Click here to download your own copy (it is a large file so may take a little time to download)

NSPCC Advice

NSPCC advice is that the constantly evolving digital world means a steady influx of new apps and games and can be hard for parents to keep track of. That's why it's important for parents to talk regularly with children about these apps and games and the potential risks they can be exposed to.  The NSPCC publishes advice and guidance for parents on discussing overall online safety with their children, as well as promoting Net Aware - a parental guide to social media and gaming apps.

If adults are concerned or have any questions on how to approach the subject with their children, they can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or visit the NSPCC website. Children who are worried about their activity on apps or online games can contact Childline 24 hours a day, online and over the phone on 0800 1111.