The virtual world opens up many opportunities for children but also can bring dangers. At Shebbear we teach the children the importance of keeping themselves safe online. It is an integral part of computing lessons and we ensure that children are able to look out for potential dangers. Safer Internet Day is an important event in our school calendar.
The online safety officer in school is Mrs Gough. If children or parents/carers have any concerns regarding online safety in school, they should direct them towards her.
The school has filters on our network which help protect the children in school. These are provided by the South West Grid for Learning (SWGFL). We also have a robust monitoring system in place which is again provided by SWGfL. Children are often more vulnerable at home when such filters often don’t exist.
All staff and pupils working in school are expected to use ICT in a responsible way and as such we ask that everyone signs an acceptable use agreement. Please see our policy:
ICT and Internet Acceptable Use Policy February 2026
how-safe-are-you-online-leaflet-_cj119
Below is a useful link which has ideas about keeping children safe when on the internet.
https://www.saferinternet.org.uk/advice-centre/parents-and-carers
The Professionals Online Safety Helpline is available Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm
Call 0344 381 4772 or email enquires@saferinternet.org.uk
Advice from NSPCC on social networks, apps and games.
https://www.virginmedia.com/blog/parental-controls
Some useful advice on ensuring social media accounts have got suitable settings.
https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers
A non-profit organisation working with others to help make the internet a great and safe place for children.
