As our world continues to move online, it is becoming obvious that we are living in a digital age. From communication to finding information, the internet has become our preferred choice. For children, there is no exception. Being online is an integral part of children and young people’s lives. Social media, online games, websites, and apps can be accessed through mobile phones, computers, laptops and tablets all of which form a part of children and young people’s online world. In fact, the younger generations are the first to grow up with the internet as something that defines their lives. With these changes come unfamiliar problems and insecurities, but also ways of finding our feet in this new world.
How to Implement e Safety In Schools
The internet and online technology provides new opportunities for young people’s learning and growth, but it can also expose them to new types of risks. E-safety should form a fundamental part of schools’ and colleges’ safeguarding and child protection measures. SEE: E Safety Check
Government guidance across the UK and many parts of the world highlights the importance of safeguarding children and young people from harmful and inappropriate online material. A whole school approach to online safety helps ensure staff, governors, volunteers, and parents teach children about online safety.
What you should do
Schools have a dual responsibility when it comes to e-safety: to ensure the school’s online procedures keep children and young people safe, and to teach them about online safety, in and outside of school. Your school should foster an open environment in which children and young people are encouraged to ask any questions and participate in an ongoing conversation about the benefits and dangers of the online world.
Our information and resources will help you to:
- create e-safety policies and procedures that will help you mitigate risk and respond to concerns
- ensure teachers have the knowledge to teach students about e-safety
- provide advice on using social media and live streaming
- support and include parents and carers by sharing helpful advice and resources
- review and update your e-safety provision on an ongoing basis.
