At Twiss Green Community Primary School, we value the importance of Online Safety. Because of this, through every year group, Online Safety and its importance will be taught to your child. Whilst at school, the digital content that is available to your child is carefully controlled and filtered in order to safeguard them. However, once outside the school environment, it is particularly important that the messages that your child receives whilst at school are reinforced at home. Because of this, we think that it is really important that both school and home work in partnership. We have put together a range of material to support our understanding of Online Safety. Please also see the Parent Information Section which contains a range of useful resources and information.
Useful websites
The internet can be a useful tool for communicating, downloading information (such as recipes, maps, train times, weather etc) researching, shopping, teaching and generally having fun playing internet games and activities. For most people the internet has become the first port of call for information and a vital part of their everyday life; and for children and young people in particular an excellent tool for homework and chatting to friends!
Because of the prolific use of the internet coupled with the anonymity of internet users, internet safety has become paramount and all internet users need to be aware of the key issues. As with many activities in life, so long as you follow certain guidelines and are aware of the dangers, you should still be able to enjoy safe surfing. Many organisations have set up comprehensive websites which provides guides and rules on internet safety.
Internet watch foundation (www.iwf.org.uk).
The only organisation in the UK that provides an internet hotline for the public to report websites with potentially illegal content, it also features useful tips on internet safety, filters and links to other helpful organisations.
Get net wise (www.getnetwise.org)
This is an American public service website set up by internet industry corporations and public interest organisations designed to help ensure that internet users have safe, constructive, and educational or entertaining online experiences. An excellent website, easy-to-use with lots of comprehensive information on keeping children safe online, guidance on protecting your home PC, stopping unwanted emails and keeping your personal information private.
ThinkuKnow.co.uk (www.thinkuknow.co.uk)
This website provides advice and guidance for parents and schools on new technologies and safe use of the internet for children. Information on this website has been provided by Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), the UK’s National law enforcement agency that focuses on tackling child abuse, An excellent website for schools and parents as there are plenty of downloadable free resources and presentations on internet safety. Caters for children as young as five.
Childnet International (www.childnet.com)
Childnet International is a non-profit organisation working with other organisations around the world to ensure the internet is a safe place for children. The website contains lots of information and resources for parents, teachers and children.