Online Safety
At Swalwell Primary School, we are committed to helping children use technology safely, responsibly and confidently. The internet offers many opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, but it is important that children understand how to stay safe online and know where to seek help if they are worried about anything they see or experience.
Online safety is taught throughout our curriculum and reinforced regularly through assemblies, classroom activities and awareness events. We encourage all children to speak to a trusted adult if something online makes them feel uncomfortable, worried or unsafe.
Need Help?
If your child is worried about something that has happened online, support is always available.
Children can speak to:
- Their class teacher
- A member of the safeguarding team
- Any trusted adult in school
If you are concerned about online abuse, child exploitation or inappropriate online behaviour, please report it to CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre):
CEOP Reporting: https://www.ceop.police.uk/ceop-reporting/
Tips for Staying Safe Online
Children should always remember to:
- Keep personal information private.
- Never arrange to meet someone they have only spoken to online.
- Tell a trusted adult if someone online makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Use secure passwords and keep them private.
- Think carefully before sharing photographs, videos or personal details.
- Know how to report concerns using the CEOP website or within apps and games.
Support for Parents and Carers
We know that the online world evolves rapidly, and it can sometimes be difficult for families to keep up with the latest apps, games and online trends.
As part of our commitment to online safety, we share regular 'Wake Up Wednesday' guides with parents and carers. These guides provide up-to-date information about popular apps, games, websites and online issues, helping families to make informed decisions and have important conversations at home.
Topics covered include:
- Fortnite and online gaming
- TikTok and social media platforms
- Online wellbeing and mental health
- Setting up apps, games and devices safely
- Privacy settings and parental controls
- Managing screen time and digital habits
Latest Parent Guides
- Fortnite: What Parents Need to Know
- Setting Up Apps, Games and Software Safely
- Social Media and Mental Health
- TikTok: What Parents Need to Know
(Insert your PDF links here.)
Useful Online Safety Websites
Thinkuknow
Age-appropriate online safety advice, games and activities for children and families:
- Ages 5-7
- Ages 8-10
- Ages 11-13
BBC Own It
Practical advice for parents and children on online safety, social media, gaming and digital wellbeing.
Internet Matters
Expert guidance for parents on apps, games, devices, parental controls and online safety concerns.
https://www.internetmatters.org
Common Sense Media
Reviews and advice on apps, games, films and social media platforms used by children and young people.
https://www.commonsensemedia.org
Working Together
Online safety is most effective when schools and families work together. By maintaining open conversations, setting appropriate boundaries and staying informed about the latest online trends, we can help children enjoy the benefits of technology whilst remaining safe, respectful and responsible digital citizens.
Parent Guides
Please download our latest guides below: