Online Safety – Information for Parents and Carers
At Heymann Primary and Nursery School, the safety and wellbeing of our children is our highest priority. We teach online safety throughout the curriculum and work in partnership with parents and carers to help children use technology in a positive and responsible way.
The internet is an important part of children’s lives. It supports learning, creativity and communication. However, it is essential that children are taught how to use it safely both in school and at home.
We aim to provide families with clear information and useful links so that you feel confident supporting your child online.
How we teach online safety in school
At Heymann, online safety is taught in an age-appropriate way through our computing curriculum, RSHE and whole-school events such as Safer Internet Day.
Children learn how to stay safe when using the internet, treat others with kindness and respect online, keep personal information private and recognise when something doesn’t feel right. We encourage all children to speak to a trusted adult if they are worried about anything they see or experience online.
We also share information with parents and carers to help minimise the risks that technology can pose and to support children in using it safely at home.
How parents and carers can help at home
You can support your child by:
- talking regularly about what they do online
- keeping devices in family spaces where possible
- using parental controls on games, apps and broadband
- agreeing clear family rules for screen time
- reminding your child to tell you if something worries them
Creating an open and supportive environment at home helps children feel confident to speak to you if they need help.
Useful websites for parents and carers
Thinkuknow
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/
Advice from the National Crime Agency, with age-appropriate resources.
NSPCC Online Safety
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/
Support for parents, including conversation starters and guidance about apps and games.
Internet Matters
https://www.internetmatters.org/
Step-by-step parental control guides for all devices and platforms.
Childnet
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/
Practical advice to help you support your child in using the internet safely.
UK Safer Internet Centre
https://saferinternet.org.uk/
Up-to-date information about apps, games and online trends.
Net Aware
https://www.net-aware.org.uk/
Reviews of popular apps and social media, including age ratings.
Reporting a concern
If you are worried about online abuse or unwanted contact, you can make a report to CEOP:
CEOP Safety Centre
Children can also get support from Childline on 0800 1111 or by visiting:
www.childline.org.uk
If you need further advice or support, please contact the school office and we will be happy to help.
Working together
At Heymann, we believe that children achieve the best outcomes when school and home work together. By developing children’s knowledge and confidence, and by keeping communication open, we can ensure they are safe, happy and responsible users of technology.
