Online Safety
Online safety is an important part of keeping children safe at Our Lady & St Thomas Primary School. Our pupils are growing up in a digital world, where primary-age children are more interested in the internet and technology. While we identify the benefits of technology on modern life, we are aware of the risks that can be associated.
Throughout school, we aim to teach children:
- How to browse the internet responsibly, safely and securely, scrutinizing the validity and reliability of information they browse.
- An awareness of cyberbullying and what to do if they are affected.
- Vigilance when communicating and sharing with other people online.
- Who to discuss concerns and incidents with, should they occur.
Much of the student's exploration of the internet will occur at home, without school filters. Considering this, we have developed a list of useful websites, advice and resources you can use to guide your child’s use of the internet and technology, safely.
Useful resources and links
Search Engines
Please note, no search engine is 100% filtered, but the links below provide some safer search engines:
Websites for parents/carers and children:
CEOP is a law enforcement agency developed to help keep children and young people safe from abuse and exploitation online. Referred to as ‘online 999’. Young people and parents can get advice on a range of issues (such as cyberbullying, hacking and viruses).
ThinkUKnow is ran by CEOP, providing training, resources and information for children and young people aged 4 – 18, their families and professionals. This can support parents/carers understanding and responses to risks their children may face as they grow.
Websites for parents/carers and schools:
Childnet is an interactive resource to help young people aged 9-14 identify the potential risks of social media. They provide resources for children, young people, parents/carers and professionals to support online safety.
InternetMatters is an online safety learning platform designed for schools, parents, and children to teach children skills in online safety. They provide tips, checklists and comprehensive guides (age-specific) to help children safely and confidently explore the digital world.
ParentZone is a parenting organisation which offers free services and resources to parents, families and professionals about the digital world.
Online Safety 2024-2025
Below are some downloadable resources and guides to online safety.
Online Safety - Parent Guides
Below are some downloadable resources and guides to specific social media apps, gaming platforms and other websites.
Online Safety - Specific App and Website Information