What is e-Safety ?

In today’s society, children, young people and adults interact with technologies such as mobile phones, games consoles and the Internet on a daily basis and experience a wide range of opportunities, attitudes and situations. The exchange of ideas, social interaction and learning opportunities involved are greatly beneficial to all, but can occasionally place children, young people and adults in danger.

e-Safety covers issues relating to children and young people as well as adults and their safe use of the Internet, mobile phones and other electronic communications technologies, both in and out of school. It includes education for all members of the school community on risks and responsibilities and is part of the ‘duty of care’ which applies to everyone working with children.

At Hawkhurst CEP School we strive for the right balance between controlling access to the internet and technology, setting rules and boundaries and educating students and staff about responsible use. We are aware that children and staff cannot be completely prevented from being exposed to risks both on and offline.

Children should be empowered and educated so that they are equipped with the skills to make safe and responsible decisions as well as to feel able to report any concerns.

All members of staff are also aware of the importance of good e-Safety practice in the classroom in order to educate and protect the children in their care and are informed about how to manage their own professional reputation online and demonstrate appropriate online behaviours compatible with their role.

The e-Safety policy is essential in setting out how the school plans to develop and establish its e-Safety approach and to identify core principles which all members of the school community need to be aware of and understand.The school has appointed an e–Safety Coordinator.

• The e–Safety Policy and its implementation will be reviewed annually.
• Our e–Safety Policy has been written by the school, building on the KCC e–Safety Policy and government guidance.
• Our School Policy has been agreed by the Senior management and approved by governors.
• You can review our current e-Safety Policy, together with some helpful advice on staying safe online, by using the links on the right.

Important Organisations and Reporting a Problem

CEOP

The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre is a Law enforcement agency that aims to tackle online child abuse. It was set us in April 2006 and has received over 15,000 reports of abuse to date. Look for and click on the “Click CEOP” link to report an e-Safety issue.

Other Useful Resources

The are many websites devoted to helping parents become more aware of e-safety and their childrens on-line activities, here are just a few that we have found to contain some useful information.