Keeping children safe online is an important part of our safeguarding responsibility.

Technology supports learning, creativity and communication, but it can also expose children to risks. At Temple Ewell Church of England Primary School, we take a proactive approach to online safety. We do not simply respond to issues - we teach children how to recognise risks, think critically and seek help confidently.

Online safety is part of our wider safeguarding culture and is regularly reviewed to reflect changes in the digital world.

How We Support Children in School

Online safety education is embedded across the curriculum.

In Computing, children are taught how to:

• Protect personal information
• Use secure passwords
• Understand their digital footprint
• Recognise misleading content and online scams
• Use digital tools responsibly

Through Relationships and Health Education, children explore:

• Respectful online behaviour
• Healthy online communication
• Peer pressure and social influence
• How to report concerns

We also address emerging digital issues, including:

• Artificial intelligence and AI-generated content
• Deepfake and edited imagery
• Online financial scams
• The influence of algorithms and targeted content

Our internet systems are filtered and monitored in line with national standards, and staff receive regular safeguarding training.

Working in Partnership with Families

Parents and carers are key partners in supporting children’s online safety.

We encourage families to:

• Have regular conversations about online experiences
• Set clear boundaries around device use
• Use parental controls where appropriate
• Encourage children to speak up if something concerns them

Children are far more likely to share concerns when they feel listened to and supported.

If You Have a Concern

If your child shares a worry about something they have seen or experienced online, please contact the school. We will always take concerns seriously and respond in line with safeguarding procedures.

You can contact:

Designated Safeguarding Lead: Mrs A. Matthews
Deputy DSL: Ms O’Connor, Mrs Creane and Mr Robbins

Serious concerns can also be reported directly to CEOP:
https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/

Further Support and Guidance

The following organisations provide reliable, up-to-date advice for families:

• Childnet
• NSPCC
• UK Safer Internet Centre
• Internet Matters
• Thinkuknow

These sites offer practical guidance on parental controls, privacy settings and current online trends.

Our Aim

We want every child at Temple Ewell to:

• Feel safe using technology
• Develop confidence and resilience online
• Understand how to manage risk
• Know how and when to ask for help

If you would like further advice or support, please contact the school - we are here to help.