Keeping Students Safe online
At Grace Academy Darlaston, we are committed to teaching students how to use the internet safely and responsibly. While we believe in educating students about the risks of the digital world, we also have robust systems in place to keep them safe while they learn.
We use Smoothwall, a real-time content filtering system that blocks inappropriate content and helps maintain a safe online learning environment. Additionally, we use Impero, which allows staff to monitor computer and internet use and step in whenever necessary.
Online Safety: A Parent's Guide
The digital world offers amazing opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection. As a parent, you are a crucial part of helping your child navigate this world safely. While technology can feel overwhelming, you don't need to be an expert to help your child stay secure. By taking a proactive and open approach, you can build a strong foundation for their online well-being.
How to Safeguard Your Child at Home
1. Start the Conversation Early and Keep It Open
- Make it a regular topic: Talk to your child about their online life just as you would about their school day or friends. Ask them what games they're playing, what videos they're watching, and who they are talking to.
- Be a good listener: Create a space where your child feels comfortable coming to you if something goes wrong. Avoid a judgmental or panicked reaction. Remind them that they can always talk to you or another trusted adult, no matter what.
- Set expectations together: Work with your child to create a "family digital agreement" or a set of rules for using devices. This could include things like:
- Screen time limits: How much time is allowed on different devices?
- Appropriate content: What websites, apps, and games are okay to use?
- Personal information: Never share private information like their full name, address, school, or phone number online without your permission.
- Online behaviour: Remind them to be kind and respectful to others online, and to tell you if someone is being rude or bullying them.
2. Use Technology to Your Advantage
- Know the devices: Familiarise yourself with the devices your child uses, from phones and tablets to gaming consoles and smart TVs. Understand the settings and features on each one.
- Implement parental controls: Parental controls can be a useful tool to support your family's online safety. They can help you:
- Filter content: Block access to inappropriate or adult websites.
- Manage screen time: Set time limits for how long and when a device can be used.
- Control purchases: Prevent in-app or in-game purchases.
- Limit communication: Restrict who your child can communicate with.
- Remember their limitations: Parental controls are not foolproof. They should be used in combination with open communication and supervision.
- Location, location, location: Keep devices in a shared family space, like the living room, rather than in bedrooms. This makes it easier to supervise what your child is doing and to engage with their online world.
3. Model Positive Online Behaviour
- Think before you post: Show your child that you are also careful about what you share online. Ask their permission before posting a photo of them and be mindful of your own "digital footprint."
- Keep your passwords secure: Teach your child the importance of using strong, unique passwords and not sharing them with anyone, not even their friends.
- Question what you see: Talk about misinformation or fake news you see online. This helps your child develop critical thinking skills and learn how to identify reliable sources.
Understanding the Risks of AI for Students
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly important part of daily life. While AI tools can be beneficial for education, there are also important risks to be aware of.
- Reliance, not learning: There is a risk that students may become overly reliant on AI to complete tasks, rather than developing their own critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Misinformation and bias: AI can sometimes produce inaccurate or biased information. It is crucial for students to understand that the information they get from AI should be double-checked using reliable sources.
- Privacy and data protection: AI tools often collect data. When a student uses an AI tool, any information they input (for example, their personal data or their school work) may be stored and used to train the AI. This can create a risk to their privacy and intellectual property.
The UK government has published guidance for schools to help them use AI safely and effectively. You can read the latest guidance from the Department for Education here:
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) in education - GOV.UK
Useful Websites for Support
Navigating online safety is a continuous process. Here are some trusted organisations that provide a wealth of information and resources for parents:
- Childnet: Offers excellent tools and resources, including conversation starters and guides on popular apps and games.
- UK Safer Internet Centre: Provides advice, resources, and a guide to setting up parental controls on various devices and broadband providers.
- NSPCC Keeping Children Safe Online: A fantastic guide to social media sites, apps, and games, explaining what they are and the potential risks involved.
- Internet Matters: A not-for-profit organisation with comprehensive guides on a wide range of online safety topics, from cyberbullying to online grooming.
- Thinkuknow: An educational programme from the National Crime Agency's CEOP Command. It has a section specifically for parents and carers with advice and resources.
