At St Andrew’s CE Primary School we believe in keeping your child safe both in and out of school. Children today have embraced new technologies as a source of information, education and entertainment. The use of digital technology is regarded as normal by this generation, and it is now fully integrated into their daily lives.
Children and young people are using technology in new and exciting ways, enhancing and enriching their lives with the many tools on offer. In their exploration of these technologies, young people are not only developing their ICT skills, but also a whole host of ‘softer’ skills – creativity, communication and networking skills, for example – which will be much in demand by the employers of the future.
Children are increasingly referred to as ‘digital natives’: citizens born into a digital world, who grow up surrounded by and emerged in the technology and tools of the digital age. Their confidence and skills in using this technology is typically high, but their knowledge and awareness of the inherent issues, risks and dangers is usually very low.
Children and young people need to be empowered to keep themselves safe – this isn’t just a top down approach.
Children will be children – pushing boundaries and taking risks. At a public swimming pool we have gates, put up signs, have lifeguards and shallow ends, but we also teach children how to swim.
At St Andrew’s CE Primary school, we have a specific e-safety curriculum that covers every group from EYFS to Year 6. The coverage of topics has been designed in line with CEOP, the THINKYOUKNOW website and from the training the Headteacher, staff and governors have attended. We also have a specific e-safety policy, an e-safety protocol for everyone working in school, a risk assessment that is regularly reviewed, a training programme for our teachers and teaching assistants on their online reputation and a dedication to ensure that children can explore the digital world through various devices safely.
Have a look at these websites:
SaferInternet , Parent information and KIDSMART to help you and your children keep safe online.
Educate Against Hate, which gives parents, teachers and school leaders practical advice on protecting children from extremism and radicalisation.