What is Online Safety?

Online Safety at Central Park

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.

At Central Park, 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 pupil's use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters.

Below are a list of useful websites, advice and resources that you may find helpful when navigating the issue of online safety with your child. At the bottom of this page are resources that your child can directly access as well to help them learn about online safety.

Useful resources and links

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.

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...

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 & Social Media

The number of apps and social media channels your child could be exposed to grow all the time, as does an app's functionality. 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.

Net Aware update from the NSPCC - UK Safer Internet Centre

https://saferinternet.org.uk/online-issue/social-media-3

The apps included are:

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

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

Below are a number of links that 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

Below are links more suitable for older children.
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/8_10/Online safety keeps you safe on the Internet while using devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers. Online safety can protect you from harmful content, cyber attacks, phishing scams and malicious users. 

These are some of the risks that are associated with online-safety:

Cyber bullying, Grooming, Identity Theft, Digital Footprint and online reputation, Health and well being, Sexting, Copyright.