Oakhurst Community Primary School

Online Safety

Our pupils are growing up in a world of ever-changing technology. While we feel that the use of technology is a largely positive aspect of modern life, we cannot ignore the risks that can be associated.

Throughout school we aim to teach children:

  • about the impact of cyber-bullying and what to do if they have been affected
  • to be vigilant when communicating online recognising that people may not always be who they say they are and to be sensible about what they share
  • to tell an adult they trust if something is upsetting them
  • to question the reliability of information given through a web based source
  • to search responsibly for information while using internet browsers

We understand that much of our pupils' use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters.

Below, you will find:

  • a list of useful websites, advice and resources that you may find helpful when navigating the issue of online safety with your child
  • resources that your child can directly access as well to help them learn about online safety
  • a set of handy parent guides for: social networking, gaming and technology

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. The website has a lot of content for children to help them navigate their online lives, and the free smartphone app comes with a special keyboard which can intervene with help and support in the moments that children need it the most.

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 and Social Media

The number of apps and social media channels your child could be exposed to is growing all the time, as does the functionality of such apps. 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/

The apps included are:

  • Fortnite
  • Instagram
  • Snapchat
  • YouTube
  • Minecraft
  • Clash of Clans & Clash Royale
  • Kik
  • Friv
  • Dubsmash
  • Wink
  • YOLO
  • TikTok

And many, many more

Supporting Neurodivergent Children

If you have a neurodivergent child who plays games online, this is a helpful resource for supporting them in engaging with this safely:

Supporting Neurodivergent Children Online 

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

These links 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

These links are more suitable for older children:
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/8_10/
https://www.nsteens.org/

Parent Guides

Below are a wide range of parent guides to help you make critical decisions regarding your child's use of the internet.

Parent Guides to Social Networking Apps

Parent Guides to Online Gaming

Parent Guides to Online Safety

Parent Guides to Technology

Parent Guides to Media Players

 

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