At Prospect Hill Junior School, we recognise that the online world plays a significant part in children’s lives nowadays. While it offers many exciting opportunities for learning, creativity and connection, it also presents risks that children may not yet be equipped to navigate on their own. Teaching online safety is therefore a vital part of helping our pupils grow into confident, responsible and informed digital citizens.

We are aware of our responsibility as educators to ensure children develop an understanding of how to stay safe online and how to be responsible users of the internet. However, a partnership between school and parents/carers is essential in ensuring that every child is protected, informed and ready for the digital world.

Guidance for Parents and Carers

Below are some practical ways parents and carers can help children stay safe and make positive choices when using the internet and digital devices:

• Talk openly and regularly with your child about what they do online, who they interact with, and how it makes them feel.

• Set age-appropriate boundaries, including time limits, device-free times and clear rules about apps, games and social media.

• Keep personal information private by reminding your child not to share details such as their full name, school, location or passwords.

• Use parental controls and privacy settings on devices, apps and home internet to limit inappropriate content and manage screen time.

• Encourage your child to come to you if they see or experience anything that worries or upsets them online—reassure them they won’t be in trouble.

• Model positive online behaviour by showing healthy screen habits and respectful communication.

• Know the games and platforms your child is using, including their age ratings and chat features, so you can guide them appropriately.

• Teach them how to block and report inappropriate content or behaviour and practise what to do if something feels unsafe.

If you are concerned about your child's safety, please contact the school. In line with our online safety policy, we will respond with proportionate action, where necessary, and offer support where we are able.

Online resources and guidance

In order to stay up to date with online safety trends, concerns and advice, we advise that parents and carers engage with The National College's online safety guidance. You can get free information and downloads from their website, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube for regular up-to-date advice and guidance.

For further information and guidance, you may wish to visit the NSPCC website. 

The Internet Matters website has lots of useful advice for safely setting up children's devices and software/applications, including how to use parental controls.

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