Online Safety

Online Safety @ St-James’

In a world of growing technologies, we believe it is imperative that our children are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and power to make the right decisions, to have control over their online life, and to understand how to obtain further guidance when required. The use of technology can have a largely positive aspect on our children’s lives; however, they also need to be aware of the potential risks and how to deal with, minimise and control these.

Across the curriculum we aim to ensure that children understand the importance of being kind online and for those that aren’t, how harmful this can be, the affects this has on others and what needs to be done if children are affected. For children to be aware that when communicating online people may not always be who they say they are. For our children to be sensible about what they share, knowing that we do not share personal information with anyone online. Our children know to always to tell an adult they trust if something is upsetting them. Children are taught to question the reliability of information given and for web-based information to check the accuracy of this using safe searches.

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

http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk

Thinkuknow is an education programme from the National Crime Agency’s CEOP Command. Since 2006, it aims to ensure that everyone has access to this practical information – children, young people, their parents and carers and the professionals who work with them.


Internet Matters

https://www.internetmatters.org/advice/esafety-leaflets-resources/

A comprehensive web resource with a wide array of tips and advice on how to navigate the online world with your child. Some of their guidance we attach below but you can find even more by visiting the link.


National Online Safety

https://nationalonlinesafety.com/resources/platform-guides/

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.


NSPCC

http://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/share-aware/

The NSPCC are the first to admit that the internet is amazing. Children can play, learn, create and connect - opening up a whole world of exciting possibilities. But with the digital world changing all the time, how can you make sure your child’s staying safe? That’s where the NSPCC come in. Whether you’re an online expert or you’re not sure where to start, their tools and advice will help you keep your child safe.


Childnet

http://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers

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

http://ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/

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

https://www.bbc.com/ownit

The BBC have a website and app called Own It. There is a lot of content to help children navigate their online lives. A free smartphone app comes with a special keyboard which can intervene with help and support when children need it.


SafetoNet

https://safetonet.com/

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.

A Guide to Apps & Social Media

The number of apps and social media channels your child could be exposed to grow all the time, as does an app's functionality. We recommend you visit Net Aware to read the latest and most current advice on over 70 apps to ensure you know what they do, how you can limit their features as well as recommended age restrictions.

https://www.net-aware.org.uk/

Some of the apps included are:



Resources for children to use.

Below are some links that children themselves can access for help when navigating the tricky subject of online safety

Reception – Year 2

Below are a number of links that are tailored for children in the younger year groups.

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/5_7/

https://www.netsmartzkids.org/

https://www.childnet.com/resources/smartie-the-penguin


Year 3 – Year 6

Below are links more suitable for older children.

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/8_10/

https://www.nsteens.org/


Useful guides, publications, help sheets