Using the Internet is now an everyday occurrence for most adults and children. There are numerous ways in which children can access the Internet, including:

• websites
• learning platforms and virtual learning environments
• email
• online messaging
• chat rooms
• social networking
• blogs and wikis
• podcasting
• video broadcasting
• music and video downloading/streaming
• gaming
• mobile/ smart phones and tablet computers with text, video and/or web functionality

However, the increased use of technology at school and at home, if unrestricted, could give rise to several risks and dangers.

The following key measures have been adopted to help ensure that our children are not exposed to unsuitable material:

• all Internet devices are filtered and monitored by the local authority whom regularly monitor, filter and review blocked content;
• children will be taught that they might not have similar filtering systems at home and that they need to self-regulate their own uses of the Internet;
• children using the Internet will normally be working in the classroom, during lesson time and will be supervised by an adult, (usually the class teacher), always;
• staff will check that the sites pre-selected are appropriate to the age and maturity of the children;
• staff will be vigilant when children are undertaking their own search and will check that the children are following the agreed search plan;
• children will be taught to use email and the Internet responsibly to reduce the risk to themselves and others;
• children will have signed an Acceptable Use Agreement;
• the Computing Leader and IT Technician will monitor the effectiveness of Internet access strategies;
• the Headteacher will ensure that the Online Safety Policy is adhered to by all members of staff;
• an Online Safety training programme will be delivered to all children to raise the awareness and importance of safe and responsible use of the Internet and other electronic communication tools.
• When working online children will be taught to be S.M.A.R.T:

Safe- to remain safe by protecting personal information

Meeting- never meet somebody you have only been in touch with online without a parent or guarding

Accepting- do not accept email, files or messages from people you do not know

Reliable- not all information on the Internet is true, including the identify of others

Tell- it is never too late to tell a parent, carer or responsible adult if someone or something makes you feel afraid online.

Always be careful when you are using the internet. It can help you to keep in touch with your friends and help your education – but it can also cause harm – to you and to others.

Remember help is always available at school if you are having any problems online.

Don’t be afraid to talk to your teacher or another adult at school.

If you or anyone you know is worried about Child Exploitation, Online Protection or anything related to Internet safety please click the link below which will take you to the CEOP reporting website:

Tips for staying safe online:

• Make sure you keep new online friends strictly online. If someone you don't know asks to be your online friend you must ensure an adult knows about it.

• Know how to use the CEOP Button and how to report it to the CEOP Centre if you are concerned about someone’s online behaviour towards you.