"A safer internet is good, an internet that allows children to be safer is better" 

Online Safety refers to protecting children when using technology or accessing the internet. It encompasses aspects of all areas of Safeguarding and applies them to the digital age we now live in. 

At Windwhistle, we want to empower our children to feel confident and happy when using devices with the knowledge of what steps they can take to help keep themselves and others safe. We want children to be able to recognise safe choices when using devices, and what they can do if they come across something that makes them feel upset or worried. 
Teaching children how to keep themselves safe online is an essential part of our Safeguarding Curriculum. With the increasing use of digital technology in School, the Community and at Home comes the increasing need to be aware of the potential dangers and to protect personal information online.

360 Safe

Windwhistle are currently working towards their 360 Safe accreditation.

You can read more about the accreditation process by going to their website.

Resources for Parents & Carers 

As a Parent or Carer it can be really difficult to know where to turn when you are in need of resources or advice on the best way to support your child. There are lots of resources relating to Online Safety available on the internet that are really diverse and can be used to start a conversation between you and your child. Some of our favourites are below; 

Techosaurus from the NSPCC - is aimed at younger children who are starting to use technology and the internet, and keeps the conversation around online safety positive. 

Internet Matters - is a wealth of resources and practical guides for Parents and Carers covering everything from Parent Controls to Social Media. 

UK Safer Internet Centre - tips, advice and resources to help children of all ages stay safe online. 

How to enable 'Restricted Mode' for YouTube, for Computers, Android & iPhone.

The CEOP are part of the National Crime Agency and, as well as providing information on Online Safety, have the CEOP Safety Centre where you can report instances where you have any worries about your child being groomed online or sexually exploited. 

You can access the CEOP Safety Centre here.

The CEOP have put together the below resources for children of different ages;

Popular Social Media Apps and their recommended ages can be seen below;

Childline suggests the following five Safety Hacks to help children feel more in control online;

THINK BEFORE YOU SHARE

What you share online can stick around for longer than you think, including our photos, videos, and comments. It’s good to always keep this in mind.

KEEP PRIVATE INFORMATION PRIVATE

Keep things like your address, phone number, full name, school and date of birth private, and check what people can see in your privacy settings.

KNOW WHO YOU'RE CHATTING TO 

When chatting to others online, keep an eye out for red flags, fake profiles, or anyone who might not be who they say they are.

SPOT THE FAKES 

Not everything we see online is always going to be true. Spotting misinformation will help you feel more in control of your feed, your feelings, and your views of the world.

TALK IT OUT

If anything happens or something you’re not sure about, you don’t need to hide it or pretend it hasn’t happened. Chat to a mate, an adult you trust, or you can always contact Childline.

Childline can be called on 0800 11 11 or by using their online chat function here.