Wellbeing online
In today’s connected world, being online is part of everyday life—from learning and playing to socializing and exploring. While the internet offers amazing opportunities, it’s important to know how to stay safe and make smart choices.
For Students: Top Tips to Stay Safe Online
- Protect Your Personal Info: Never share your full name, address, school name, phone number, or passwords online.
- Think Before You Click: Be cautious about clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources.
- Be Kind Online: Treat others with respect. If you see bullying or inappropriate behavior, tell a trusted adult.
- Use Strong Passwords: Create passwords that are hard to guess and don’t share them—even with friends.
- Talk to Someone You Trust: If something online makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, speak to a parent, teacher, or school staff member.
For Parents & Carers: Supporting Your Child’s Digital Wellbeing
- Set Boundaries: Agree on screen time limits and which websites or apps are appropriate.
- Use Parental Controls: Tools like filters and monitoring apps can help manage what children access online.
- Stay Involved: Talk regularly with your child about their online experiences and encourage open communication.
- Know the Risks: Be aware of online dangers such as cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to inappropriate content.
Teaching Resources
- PSHE association Media and digital literacy- living in the wider world
- Schools - NCSC.GOV.UK How to stay secure online: interactive online security resources for 11–14 year olds
- CyberFirst Navigators
- Educate against Hate -the BBC Own It series can help you discuss the importance of online safety. Topics include managing online information, online bullying, online relationships, and privacy and security BBC Own It - Educate Against Hate
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360 degree safe is intended to help schools review their online safety policy and practice. The review takes the school through each aspect of online safety, helping the school to collaborate, report, and progress.
Staff training
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The Education for a Connected World framework describes the digital knowledge and skills that children and young people should have the opportunity to develop at different ages and stages of their lives: Education for a Connected World framework - Educate Against Hate
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DfE Prevent team offer training on social media and gaming designed for DSLs, ICT Leads, Safeguarding Governors
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Ygam Covers risky behaviour, gaming, YouTube, social media
Useful links
- ThinkUKnow – Education programme for children, parents, and professionals.
- Childnet – Resources for young people and educators to promote safe internet use.
- NSPCC Online Safety – Advice for parents and carers.
- Internet Matters – Guides and tools for families to navigate online safety.
- UK Safer Internet Centre – Tips, advice, and resources to help children stay safe online.
Digital Wellbeing at School
Healthy Schools promote not just physical and emotional health, but also digital wellbeing. We encourage:
- Safe and respectful online behavior
- Awareness of digital footprints
- Balance between screen time and offline activities
If you have concerns or questions about online safety, please contact your school’s safeguarding lead or pastoral team.