Computing Contacts in School
Headteacher and Computing Co-ordinator: Mr M Gaughan
Online Safety Leader: Mrs E Wilkinson
If you need any further information or advice on how to protect your child online, please do not hestiate to contact us,
Please see Lancashire's 'Useful links' page
Staying safe online
The internet has become an enormous part of our lives and the lives of our children. If used well, the internet is a safe, fun and informative place. Children start using computers from a very early age and are increasingly using the Internet more and more whether it is at home, in school, on their mobile phones or on a games console. However we must be aware that children must be provided with the tools to help them use the Internet safely and responsibly.
Just as we want to keep our child safe in the real world, we will want to do the same in the virtual world. It is important that we understand enough about the Internet to keep our children safe from harm, so that our children can experience the Internet positively and responsibly.
Please be aware that there are age restrictions to many websites and social media platforms. These rules are in place to keep our children safe and should be adhered to.
Children must be:
13 years or older for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, Tumblr, Reddit, Snapchat and Secret
14 years or older for LinkedIn
16 years or older for WhatsApp
17 years or older for Vine and Tinder
18 years or older for Path
18 years or older (13 with adult permission) for YouTube, Keek, Foursquare, WeChat, Kik and Flickr.
Please take the time to read some of the helpful 'top tips' below to help you use your technology safely. It also includes instructions showing how to 'block' people on some apps and how to change Internet settings on iPhone and iPad.
Useful websites and resources
The UK Safer Internet Centre is a fantastic website full of resources. They run a Safer Internet day each year which we as a school participate in.
http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/
How to deal with upsetting content
Information and advice for parents about the dangers of TIK TOK
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/parents-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok
https://www.internetmatters.org/hub/esafety-news/tik-tok-app-safety-what-parents-need-to-know/
ThinkUKnow is an extremely useful website for both adults and children to find out any information regarding e-Safety.
It has a very good section called 'The Cybercafe' which children can access and learn more about how to be safe. 'The Cybercafe' is used in lessons when teaching e-Safety in class.
Swiggle - A safe search engine we use in school to ensure every result we find while browing is suitable.
Vodafone digital parenting - We hope you found that the Digital Parenting Magazine that was sent home useful. Click here for the latest online edition. It also has a section on how to use the parental controls settings at home.
Childline - Childline is online and on the end of the phone anytime of day.
The Parent Zone - No nonsense advice for parents on making the internet 'work' for families.
