Online Safety
At St John’s C of E Middle School, we prioritise the safety, confidence, and responsible use of digital technologies by all our pupils, including tools like Artificial Intelligence. Online safety forms a core part of our safeguarding strategy and is integrated throughout school life — from lessons and assemblies to staff development, Acceptable Use Agreements, and comprehensive monitoring and filtering systems.
While the internet and AI provide exciting opportunities for learning and creativity, we are also mindful of the risks they can present. Our goal is to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills to use technology in a safe, respectful, and responsible way, both at school and at home.
We support online safety through a variety of approaches, including:
Our Curriculum
Online safety is embedded across our Computing and PSHE & RSE programmes and is taught to all pupils. Learning focuses on areas including:
- Keeping personal information private and secure
- Identifying potential online dangers and knowing how to deal with them
- Understanding cyberbullying and promoting positive, respectful behaviour online
- Developing healthy habits around screen use and digital wellbeing
- Knowing how and where to seek support or report worries
All lessons are designed to be age-appropriate, engaging, and are regularly reviewed to ensure they stay relevant as technology and online trends evolve.
Assemblies and Awareness Events
During the year, we highlight important online safety topics through school assemblies and special events, including Safer Internet Day. These occasions give pupils the chance to discuss their experiences online, consider how to stay safe, and recognise the positive ways technology can be used.
Staff Training
All staff at St John’s C of E Middle School participate in regular online safety and safeguarding training to ensure they are well-prepared to support our pupils. This training helps teachers and support staff to:
- Keep up to date with the latest online safety issues and digital trends
- Recognise the signs that a child may be experiencing online harm or risk
- Understand the 4 Cs of online safety — Content, Contact, Conduct, and Commerce
- Respond appropriately and report any concerns quickly and effectively
Beyond safeguarding, our staff are also equipped to help pupils develop positive, responsible, and balanced habits when using technology, including online platforms and Artificial Intelligence tools. This ensures children can enjoy the benefits of digital learning while staying safe and confident online.
Acceptable Use Agreements
At the start of each academic year, all pupils and staff at St John’s C of E Middle School agree to an Acceptable Use Agreement. These agreements set out expectations for the safe and responsible use of school technology, devices, and online platforms. The AUAs are reviewed annually to ensure they reflect the latest guidance and best practice in online safety.
Filtering and Monitoring
To keep pupils safe when using school devices and online resources, St John’s C of E Middle School employs robust filtering and monitoring systems:
- Our filtering system prevents access to inappropriate or harmful content.
- Our monitoring software helps staff identify potential risks or unsafe online behaviour and sends alerts when necessary.
- All systems are regularly checked and updated to meet the Department for Education’s (DfE) filtering and monitoring standards.
While no system can guarantee complete protection, our approach combines education, supervision, and technology to provide a high level of online safety for all pupils. This ensures that children can explore and learn online confidently, including when using Artificial Intelligence tools.
Guidance and Resources to Support Online Safety at Home
Every week, on Wednesday, school send out a ‘’Wake up Wednesday’ guide which helps to support parents on certain aspects of online safety. This could be how to put restrictions on pupils phones, or understanding certain social media apps.
Below is some links to relevant sites that will help support with online safety at home:
barnardos.org.uk/online-safety
bbc.com/ownit/the-basics/8-tips-for-staying-safe-online
Alternatively, contact school or can pass you onto a member of our safeguarding team, to help support you – 01527 832376.
What can I do to keep my child safe?
We understand that checking your child’s phone can feel challenging for both you and your child, and it’s natural for them to be resistant. However, smartphones are incredibly powerful tools that give children instant access to a wide range of information and online experiences. When we provide children with these devices, it’s important to guide them in using them safely, and open communication between parent and child is key to staying safe online.
Sit down with your child and explain that monitoring their device isn’t about invading their privacy or knowing every detail of their life, friendships, or what they watch on streaming services. It’s about ensuring apps and online platforms are being used safely, responsibly, and appropriately.
The NSPCC also provides excellent advice and resources to help parents keep children safe online. For more information, visit: www.nspcc.org.uk
Award in Online Safety for Parents of Children 11-14 | International