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Meriden C E Primary School
Online Safety
How we keep our children safe online
At Meriden Church of England Primary School, safeguarding children is our highest priority. Technology plays an important role in children's lives and learning, and we are committed to helping pupils use the internet safely, responsibly and positively.We work in partnership with pupils, parents, staff and governors to ensure that online safety is embedded throughout school life.
Educate
We teach children how to stay safe online through our curriculum, assemblies and everyday learning opportunities.
Online Safety in the Curriculum
Online safety is taught across the school through Computing, PSHE, Relationships Education and wider safeguarding lessons. Children learn age-appropriate knowledge and skills, including:
EYFS
•Using technology safely and with adult support
•Understanding that not everything online is real
•Asking a trusted adult for help when worried
•Developing healthy habits around technology
Key Stage 1
•Keeping personal information private
•Identifying trusted adults
•Being kind and respectful online
•Understanding what to do if something makes them feel uncomfortable
Key Stage 2
•Digital footprints and online reputation
•Social media awareness
•Cyberbullying and respectful communication
•Safe online gaming
•Online scams and misinformation
•Managing risk and reporting concerns
Additional Learning Opportunities
Pupils also learn about online safety through:
•Assemblies
•Class discussions
•Safer Internet Day activities
•Pupil leadership initiatives
•Cross-curricular learning opportunities
We encourage all children to become responsible digital citizens who can enjoy the benefits of technology safely.
Protect
We use a range of measures to help create a safe digital environment for all pupils.
Filtering and Monitoring
The school operates appropriate filtering and monitoring systems to help prevent access to harmful or inappropriate content and to identify potential safeguarding concerns.These systems are regularly reviewed by school leaders and governors to ensure they remain effective and appropriate for our pupils.
Secure School Systems
We:
•Maintain secure networks and devices
•Ensure software and safeguarding systems are regularly updated
•Implement clear expectations for the use of technology
•Follow robust procedures for data protection and information security
Staff Training
All staff receive regular safeguarding and online safety training. This enables them to:
•Recognise emerging risks
•Respond effectively to concerns
•Support pupils appropriately
•Promote safe online behaviours
Engage
Keeping children safe online is a shared responsibility. We work closely with parents and carers to help them support safe technology use at home.
Support for Parents
Throughout the year we provide:
•Parent information sessions
•Online safety updates in newsletters
•Links to trusted advice and guidance
•Resources to support conversations at home
Through #WakeUpWednesday, The National College aims to equip every trusted adult with the knowledge and skills they need to keep up with the latest information, implement best practice and heighten their awareness of issues around three core topics; online safety, mental health & wellbeing; and climate change & sustainability.
#WakeUpWednesday resources give instant and easy access to world-class expertise in the areas they need the most anytime, anywhere.
We encourage families to talk regularly about online experiences and to create clear expectations around internet use.
Respond
We take all online safety concerns seriously and act promptly when concerns are raised.
Reporting a Concern
Children are encouraged to:
•Speak to a trusted adult
•Tell their class teacher
•Speak to a member of the safeguarding team
Parents and carers are encouraged to contact the school if they have any concerns about their child's online safety.
Safeguarding Support
Where concerns are identified, the school will:
•Listen carefully and respond appropriately
•Work with families where appropriate
•Follow safeguarding procedures
•Seek advice from external agencies when required
Useful Reporting and Support Services
•CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection)
•Childline
•NSPCC
•UK Safer Internet Centre
Drop the Screen!
Meriden CE Primary School Council are proud to share our Drop the Screen campaign! We met with another local Primary School to launch the project. We know it is important to balance our time on our devices and pledge to reduce our time online. Research has shown too much screen time can affect our mental health, concentration and focus, relationships and physical health.
Join our campaign and make your pledge!
Check out the pledges from Solihull Council members...
Our Pledge Wall!
"I am really pleased that school are supporting the children to be safe online." It is great to see my children talking about reducing their time on screens- I've already seen a difference!"