Internet Safety
Online Safety Policy
Internet Safety for Parents and Children
At St James the Less RC Primary School, safeguarding our pupils includes a strong focus on online safety, recognising the significant role digital technology plays in children’s lives.
We adhere to statutory guidance outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, which mandates all staff to be vigilant in identifying and responding to online risks such as cyberbullying, exploitation, inappropriate content, and harmful behaviours.
Our designated safeguarding lead (DSL) coordinates the school’s online safety strategy, ensuring staff receive regular training and that robust systems are in place to monitor and philtre online activity.
We educate pupils about safe and responsible internet use through our curriculum, empowering them to navigate the digital world confidently and safely. We also work closely with parents and carers, providing guidance and resources to support safe online practises at home.
In line with Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023, we collaborate with local safeguarding partners and external agencies to respond effectively to any concerns, ensuring a coordinated approach to protecting children both in school and beyond.
Digital Devices and Gaming
We recognise that many children spend a significant amount of time gaming and using digital devices. While gaming can offer fun and social opportunities, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance to support your child’s well-being and development. We encourage parents to set clear boundaries around screen time and to use parental controls and restrictions available on gaming consoles and devices to ensure safe and age-appropriate play. Regularly engaging with your child about the games they play and encouraging breaks can help promote positive habits. For support and practical advice on managing gaming and device use, please visit trusted resources such as PEGI, Common Sense Media, Internet Matters, and the UK Safer Internet Centre (links below).
Useful Links
CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command)
www.ceop.police.uk
Report online abuse and get advice on staying safe online.
Childline
www.childline.org.uk
Free, confidential support for children and young people facing any problem.
Common Sense Media
https://www.commonsensemedia.org
This site offers independent reviews, age ratings, and practical guidance to help families make informed decisions about the games, apps, films, and other media their children use.
NSPCC - E-Safety for Schools
www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety
Advice, tools, and templates to support online safety in schools and at home.
UK Safer Internet Centre
www.saferinternet.org.uk
Tips, advice, and reporting tools for online safety.
Childnet International
www.childnet.com
Guidance and resources for children, parents, and schools on cyberbullying and online safety.
Educate Against Hate
www.educateagainsthate.com
Practical advice to protect children from extremism and radicalisation.
Internet Matters
www.internetmatters.org
Age-specific online safety checklists and parental controls guidance.
Parentzone
www.parentzone.org.uk
Support and resources for parents to keep children safe online.
PEGI (Pan European Game Information)
www.pegi.info
Provides age ratings and content descriptors for video games to help parents understand what is suitable for their child.
