For Pupils

Using the internet can be fun. We all use it for lots of different reasons. It will be an important part of your learning as you move through primary and high school. You need to be able to look after yourself and remain safe.

SMART Rules!

1. Safe: Keep safe by being careful not to give out personal information when you’re chatting or posting online. Personal information includes your email address, phone number and password.

2. Meet: Meeting someone you have only been in touch with online can be dangerous. Only do so with your parents’ or carers’ permission and even then only when they can be present. Remember online friends are still strangers even if you have been talking to them for a long time.

3. Accepting: Accepting emails, messages, or opening files, images or texts from people you don’t know or trust can lead to problems – they may contain viruses or nasty messages.

4. Reliable: Someone online might lie about who they are and information on the internet may not be true. Always check information by looking at other websites, in books, or with someone who knows. If you like chatting online it’s best to only chat to your real world friends and family.

5. Tell: Tell a parent, carer or a trusted adult if someone, or something, makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if you or someone you know is being bullied online.

You can use the following to report anything online that you don't think is safe or if you think you are being bullied online:       

Remember that in school we have rules depending on how old you are.  You have to go through these rules with your teacher every year and sign to say that you agree with them.  They are very straight forward and agree to use the inernet in a safe way and not to bully anyone online.  If you want to read them you can download them (Acceptable Use Policy).

How safe are you online?  Try this quiz:

http://accidentaloutlaw.knowthenet.org.uk/

Some websites you might like to look at:

http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/advice-and-resources/young-people/3-11s or

http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/advice-and-resources/young-people/11-19s

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/

https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/

For Parents

So, how can you protect your child online?

The answer is simple. If you understand the internet and understand what the risks are, there are a number of things you can do that will make your child safer online...

Being involved and talking to children
Social Networks have a minimum age restriction, usually age thirteen. Talk to your children about the reasons behind the age restriction. Accessing such sites too early can expose children to unnecessary bullying and inappropriate content.

It is also very important that children feel comfortable talking to someone about things that have happened online. Talking to your children will help you to understand the ways in which they are using the internet, social media and their mobile phone. Talking to your children about responsible behaviour is important as sometimes children who are victims of cyberbullying may also be involved in cyberbullying others. Ensure they know they can go and talk to you or an adult at school if they are being bullied and need support.