E-Safety
In light of our commitment to the 'Valley Ways' approach to staying safe online, we believe it is imperative to ensure that both you and your child are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly.
E-safety encompasses various elements, including our approach to standing up against bullying and ensuring well-being while using online platforms. Below, we have outlined key advice for parents that aligns with our school's values and promotes a safe online community.
We appreciate your ongoing partnership in nurturing a safe and secure environment for our students. Your involvement is crucial in helping each child develop the skills needed to responsibly manage their online interactions.
Should you have any questions or if you require further advice on e-safety, please do not hesitate to contact the school and take a look at the range of help guides below.
General Online Safety
Instilling a sense of awareness is paramount.
Remind your child that the internet is a vast space where not all information is accurate. Encourage them to think critically about what they read online and to consult trusted sources whenever they are uncertain. Make it clear that they should always approach a trusted adult if they encounter anything online that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
Being Aware of Your Well-being Whilst Online
The digital world can sometimes have a detrimental impact on a child's mental health.
Discuss the signs of feeling overwhelmed or anxious due to online interactions and encourage open communication. Emphasise the importance of taking breaks from screens and participating in offline activities that promote well-being.
Staying Safe with Social Media
Social media can be a double-edged sword, fostering connection yet posing risks.
Talk to your child about the importance of privacy settings and that not everyone online is who they claim to be. Encourage them to be mindful of the content they share, as well as what they engage with. Remind them that it is perfectly acceptable to unfriend or block anyone who makes them uncomfortable.
Staying Safe Whilst Gaming
Many of our children enjoy online gaming, which can provide a fun and interactive experience.
However, it is essential to talk to your child about the age ratings of games, as well as to monitor the content they are exposed to. Encourage them to play games with friends rather than strangers, and discuss the importance of not sharing personal information with other players. Setting boundaries regarding gaming time can also help maintain a healthy balance.
Staying Safe with Devices
The devices our children use daily, such as tablets and smartphones, can pose potential risks.
Ensure that parental controls are enabled to restrict access to inappropriate content. Regularly review the applications they are downloading and the permissions these apps require. Encourage your child to report any suspicious or concerning online behaviour they encounter.
