Helping Students Stay Safe Online

We are committed to ensuring that all students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to use the internet safely and responsibly. Online safety is an essential part of our safeguarding approach, and we work closely with students, staff, parents and external agencies to promote safe, respectful and responsible behaviour online.

Our Approach to Online Safety

At school, online safety is taught through:

  • PSHE and tutor sessions

  • ICT and computing lessons

  • Assemblies and themed days and weeks

  • Support from external speakers and organisations

  • Regular updates and guidance for parents and carers

We follow national guidance and keep our policies under regular review to ensure that our approach reflects the most up‑to‑date advice.

What Students Learn

We help students understand:

  • How to stay safe on social media and messaging apps

  • How to protect personal information

  • What cyberbullying is and how to report it

  • Online reputation and digital footprints

  • Grooming, exploitation and inappropriate contact

  • The risks of misinformation and fake news

  • Safe gaming practices

  • How to report concerns and seek help

We encourage students to speak up about anything that makes them feel worried or uncomfortable online.

Advice for Parents & Carers

Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting young people online. Here are some ways you can help:

1. Talk Openly and Regularly

Keep communication open about apps, games, friendships and experiences online.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Agree on screen time, privacy settings and where devices can be used at home.

3. Use Parental Controls

Most devices allow you to manage content and time limits.

4. Know What Your Child Uses

Ask your child to show you the apps, games or social media platforms they use.

5. Encourage Reporting

Make sure your child knows how to report/block on apps—and that they can come to you for help.

Useful Links for Families

(Click to visit)

Staying Safe on Social Media

Many young people use social media platforms daily. We encourage the following:

  • Use privacy settings on all accounts

  • Only accept friend requests from people you know

  • Think before sharing photos, videos or personal information

  • Report harmful or inappropriate content immediately

  • Avoid sharing location information with others

If you’re unsure about an app, check out Internet Matters’ App Guides or the NSPCC NetAware reviews.

Gaming Safety

Online gaming can be great fun but also carries risks.

Tips for safe gaming:

  • Use age‑appropriate games (check PEGI ratings)

  • Talk to your child about in‑game chats and voice features

  • Disable or monitor online purchases and loot boxes

  • Encourage breaks and balanced screen time

  • Ensure consoles have parental controls enabled

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can happen anywhere online. If a student is being bullied:

  1. Don’t reply

  2. Take screenshots as evidence

  3. Block the sender

  4. Report it to the platform

  5. Tell a trusted adult or member of staff

School staff will always take concerns seriously and offer appropriate support.

Reporting Concerns

If a student feels unsafe or worried about online behaviour, they should speak to:

  • A parent or carer

  • A trusted teacher or tutor

  • The school’s safeguarding team

For serious concerns:

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

Our Policies

For further information, please refer to:

  • Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

  • Online Safety Policy

  • Behaviour Policy

  • Acceptable Use Agreements