Keeping Safe Online
What can students do to keep themselves safe online?
1. Create Strong and Unique Passwords:
One of the first steps towards online safety is creating strong and unique passwords for all your accounts. Avoid using common passwords or personal information that can be easily guessed. Instead, opt for a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. It is also important to use different passwords for each account to minimise the risk of multiple accounts being compromised.
2. Be Mindful of Personal Information:
Never share personal information, such as your full name, address, phone number, or school details, online unless it is necessary and with trusted individuals. Be cautious while interacting with strangers on social media platforms, as they may not be who they say they are or have good intentions. Remember that once information is shared online, it can be difficult to remove completely.
3. Practice Safe Social Media Usage:
Social media platforms are a popular means of communication and self-expression for students. However, it is essential to be mindful of your online presence. Review and adjust privacy settings to control who can view your profile and posts. Avoid accepting friend requests or engaging with strangers. Think twice before posting photos or sharing personal details, as they can potentially be misused.
4. Be Wary of Scams and Phishing Attempts:
Online scams and phishing attempts are common tactics used by cybercriminals to trick users into revealing personal information or downloading malicious software. Be cautious when clicking on links in emails or messages from unknown sources. Always verify the authenticity of the sender and avoid providing sensitive information through unfamiliar websites or forms.
5. Practice Responsible Digital Citizenship:
Being a responsible digital citizen means treating others with respect and kindness online. Avoid cyberbullying or engaging in any form of online harassment. Think before you post or comment, and remember that your words can have a lasting impact on others. If you encounter any inappropriate or harmful content, report it to the appropriate authorities.
What can parents do to help keep their children safe online?
1. Open Communication:
Establish an open and honest line of communication with your teenager about their online activities. Encourage them to share their experiences, concerns, and any potential online threats they may come across.
2. Set Clear Boundaries:
Set clear rules and boundaries regarding internet usage. Discuss the appropriate amount of time they can spend online, what websites they can visit, and what type of content is off-limits.
3. Educate about Online Privacy:
Teach your teenager about the importance of online privacy. Advise them to never share personal information such as their full name, address, phone number, or school name on public platforms.
4. Social Media Safety:
Discuss the potential risks associated with social media platforms and guide your teenager on how to protect their privacy. Check that they have reviewed and adjusted their privacy settings, that they are cautious while accepting friend requests, and that they avoid sharing sensitive information publicly.
5. Cyberbullying Awareness:
Educate your teenager about the harmful effects of cyberbullying and encourage them to report any instances of bullying they encounter. Teach them to be kind and respectful online and remind them that their words can have a lasting impact on others.
6. Monitoring Software:
Consider using monitoring software or parental control apps to keep an eye on your teenager's online activities. However, it is essential to balance monitoring with trust and open communication to maintain a healthy relationship.
7. Online Friendships:
Advise your teenager to be cautious when forming online friendships and to only interact with people they know in real life. Teach them to be cautious of strangers and avoid sharing personal information with online acquaintances.
8. Reporting and Blocking:
Teach your teenager how to report and block individuals who engage in inappropriate or harmful behaviour online. Encourage them to report any suspicious activity or online threats to you or a trusted adult.
What we do at Newtown High School to help keep pupils safe online?
1. Implement Internet Safety Curriculum:
Incorporate internet safety lessons into the school curriculum. Teach students about online privacy, cyberbullying, responsible social media use, and the potential risks associated with online activities.
2. Create Acceptable Use Policies:
We have and enforce a clear Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) that outlines the rules and guidelines for internet and technology use within the school premises. Make sure students and parents are aware of the policy and the consequences of violating it.
3. Filter and Monitor Internet Access:
Powys Local Authority have installed a web filtering software to block access to inappropriate websites and content for us. We regularly monitor internet activity within the school network to identify any potential threats or violations.
4. Provide Digital Citizenship and Literacy Education:
We educate students about responsible digital citizenship. We teach them about ethical online behaviour, respecting others' privacy, and the importance of being an upstanding online community member. We provide students with digital literacy training to enhance their understanding of internet safety, online research, critical thinking, and evaluating online sources' credibility.
5. Cyberbullying Prevention and Intervention:
We have established a comprehensive anti-cyberbullying program that includes awareness campaigns, support, and disciplinary measures for offenders. We encourage students to report any instances of cyberbullying they witness or experience.
6. Internet Safety Assemblies:
We organise regular assemblies that focus on internet safety. We explain to pupils about the latest online threats and how to stay safe.
7. Encourage Reporting:
We strive to create a safe reporting mechanism for students to report any online safety concerns or incidents. Students can do this via the Cymorth button on dashboard or in person to any member our pastoral and well-being teams. We will assure students that their reports will be taken seriously and appropriate actions will be taken.
8. Regular Updates and Training for Staff:
We provide regular training and updates for teachers and staff members on internet safety practices and the latest trends in online threats. We equip them with the knowledge and resources to guide and support students in their online activities.
9. Collaborate with Law Enforcement:
We have established a strong partnership with local law enforcement agencies to address online safety concerns. Seek their advice and support in dealing with cyber threats and incidents.
Keeping Safe Online
Some more helpful websites with more information on:
Keeping safe online - Hwb (gov.wales)
Educational Guides | E-safety Guides & Posters for Schools (nationalcollege.com)
Keeping children safe online | NSPCC
online-safety-updated-feb-2020.pdf (youngminds.org.uk)
How can I help my teenager stay safe online? - Support for Parents from Action For Children
Staying safe online | Childline
TikTok
/docs/Safer_TikTok_Settings.pdf
Please contact the school with any queries or concerns with regard to online safety - office@newtown-hs.powys.sch.uk. You can also see our policies under the Our School menu item.