Internet safety

The internet is an amazing resource, overflowing with knowledge, games and communities of people. At Huntingtree Primary School we make sure our pupils are aware of some of the risks to safety that are online and what to do to stay safe. We also encourage parents/carers to talk to their children about how to behave safety when online, to ensure pupils remain safe when browsing at home. 

We are committed to improving e-Safety not only in school but at home as well. If you would like to talk to a member of staff about any questions or concerns about internet use in school or at home, don't hesitate to get in touch. The school e-safety coordinator is Mr. Smith.

Children at Huntingtree use the Internet on a regular basis as part of their learning. In school, we have regular ‘e-safety’ activities to remind children of the importance of keeping themselves safe online.

At home, sometimes children can be given unsupervised access to the Internet. This, potentially, allows them to access all kinds of society (both good and bad) and bring them virtually into their homes.

Here are 5 safety tips to help you to keep your children safe online:

1.  Get permission - Teach your child to always get permission before using the computer and always try to sit with them.  If you can't sit with them, make them use the computer in an open area so you can see what they are doing.

2.  Use updated plugins and ISP (Internet Service Provider) parental controls - Always update your browser (e.g. Chrome or Firefox) and download a plugin that will stop your child from accidentally visiting suspicious websites.

3.  Use a child friendly search engine - A child friendly search engine will only list search results which they feel are suitable for children.  We recommend KidRex.org or SafeSearchKids.com.

4.  Keep personal information private - Remind your child not to give out information through emails and registration forms.  If they are unsure, then encourage them to ask you first.

5.  Encourage openess -  Encourage your child to come to you if they encounter anything online that makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened.  Try not to get angry and blame them otherwise they might not turn to you when they need help in the future.

*  A family code for internet use can also be very useful in setting boundaries and expectations.  

(Family agreement codes are given below as pdf documents).