Online Safety
Online Safety
Technology and the internet are an integral part of learning in our school. All pupils have access to personal laptops and tablets to support their learning.
In school, we use a filtering system to keep children safe and prevent them accessing inappropriate websites. We also run regular ‘e-safety’ activities to remind children of the importance of keeping themselves safe online.
We expect all children to act safely and responsibly when using technology, in and away from school. Every February we celebrate Safer Internet Day to remind our children how they can stay safe, responsible and positive when using digital technology. Parents can support their children to stay safe online by following these tips.
Tips to keep children safe online
- Unsupervised access to the internet potentially allows children access to the good and bad in society. If possible, keep your computer in a shared area so you can monitor what your child looks at.
- Talk to your child about what they are doing and who they are talking to online.
- Check the terms and conditions for the use of online resources and games to ensure they are age appropriate. Most popular social media sites, including Facebook, twitter, Instagram and TikTok, have a minimum age limit of 13 and our pupils should NOT be using them.
- If you are unable to monitor internet use, consider activating restrictions on phones and tablets to prevent children accessing inappropriate content.
Computing as part of the curriculum
Computing is an integral part of the National Curriculum. All our pupils gain an understanding of computational systems and thinking, both using and without using computers. They also learn how computers and computer systems are designed and programmed.
Coding is a key computing skill that uses a simple set of rules or instructions to create anything from games and pictures to films. Pupils can learn how to code using Scratch, a free downloadable programming language which allows children to program stories, games and animations. As children create, they learn to think creatively and reason systematically. While Scratch is primarily designed for 8-16 year-olds, younger children can also use it with parental supervision. See below to download.