Online Safety

Online Safety

At Cliffe Primary School, keeping children safe online is a priority. We recognise that the internet is an important part of children’s lives, offering many opportunities for learning, creativity and communication. Alongside this, we also teach children how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.

How We Teach Online Safety in School

Online safety is taught as part of our Learning for Life and Computing curriculum and is regularly revisited throughout the year. Children learn to:

• Keep personal information private

• Understand what is safe and unsafe to share online

• Be respectful when communicating with others

• Know what to do if something online makes them feel worried or upset

• Understand that not everything they see online is true

Online safety messages are reinforced through assemblies, lessons and discussions linked to real-life situations.

How Parents and Carers Can Support at Home

Parents and carers play a vital role in helping children stay safe online. Simple steps you can take include:

• Talking regularly with your child about what they do online

• Encouraging them to tell you if something online worries or upsets them

• Setting clear rules about screen time and appropriate content

• Using parental controls on devices, apps and streaming services

• Keeping devices in shared family spaces where possible
  
  

Parental Controls and Device Safety

Most devices, apps and internet providers offer parental controls that can help to:

• Limit screen time

• Block inappropriate content

• Manage in-app purchases

• Control who your child can communicate with

We recommend parents regularly check privacy and safety settings, especially when children start using new apps or games.

Useful Websites for Parents

The following websites offer practical advice, guides and up-to-date information to help keep children safe online:

• NSPCC / Net Aware
  www.net-aware.org.uk
  Reviews of apps, games and social media platforms, plus safety advice.

• Internet Matters
  www.internetmatters.org
  Step-by-step guides to setting parental controls and managing screen time.

• Childnet
  www.childnet.com
  Advice and resources for parents and children on online safety.

• Thinkuknow (CEOP)
  www.thinkuknow.co.uk
  Information about staying safe online and how to report concerns.
  
  

What to Do if You Have a Concern

If you are worried about your child’s online activity:

• Speak to your child and reassure them

• Save any evidence where appropriate (messages, screenshots)

• Use the reporting tools within apps or websites

• Contact the school if you feel we can support or advise further

If you believe a child is at immediate risk, contact the police.

Our Commitment

We work in partnership with parents and carers to promote safe and positive online experiences. By working together, we can help children develop the skills and confidence they need to navigate the online world safely.

If you have any questions or concerns about online safety, please speak to your child’s class teacher or a member of the safeguarding team.