As children increasingly engage with the digital world—using the internet, social media, mobile phones, and games consoles—it is vital that we equip them with the skills to navigate online spaces safely and responsibly.

Our goal at Medina Primary School is not to limit children from enjoying the benefits of modern technology, but rather to empower them to use it wisely, make informed choices, and know exactly where to turn if they encounter something that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Our Curriculum & Approach

Online safety is woven directly into daily life at Medina Primary School. Through our Computing and PSHE curricula, as well as cross-curricular learning, we teach children:

• Critical Thinking: How to assess content, verify sources, and identify potential risks.

• Responsible Behaviour: How to communicate respectfully and understand their digital footprint.

• Reporting & Support: What steps to take if they witness or experience cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or unwanted contact.

Throughout the school year, we reinforce these principles through whole-school initiatives, dedicated assemblies and Safer Internet Day activities.

Our ultimate aim is to nurture confident, resilient, and digitally literate pupils who can self-regulate and make safe decisions both inside and outside the classroom.

Working in Partnership with Parents

Keeping children safe online is a shared commitment between school and home. We support our families by providing:

• Practical tips, updates on trending platforms, and safety advice via our regular school newsletters.

• Guidance on setting up effective parental controls and privacy settings at home.

Online Safety Checklist for Parents

Use this quick checklist to help safeguard your home digital environment:

• [ ] Talk & Explore: Ask your child to show you the apps, games, and websites they enjoy most.

• [ ] Privacy Settings: Ensure privacy and security settings are configured on all devices, keeping accounts set to "Private."

• [ ] Real-World Connections: Remind your child only to accept friend requests or chat with people they know and trust offline.

• [ ] Content Filters: Activate parental controls and age-appropriate content filters on your home broadband, mobile networks, and individual devices.

• [ ] Open Communication: Reassure your child that they can always come to you without fear of getting into trouble if something online upsets or worries them.

Helpful Guides & Resources

Platform Guides (National Online Safety)

Practical advice on popular apps, streaming platforms, and games:

• TikTok Guide

• YouTube Guide

• Disney+ Guide

• Netflix Guide

• Fortnite Guide

• Minecraft Guide

• Robloxs Guide

• Remote Learning Safety Guide

Device Safety Guides (UK Safer Internet Centre)

Step-by-step instructions for setting parental controls across different devices:

• Apple Devices (iPad)

• Apple Devices (iPhone)

• Nintendo Consoles (Switch)

• PlayStation Consoles (PS4 & PS5)

• Xbox Consoles (Xbox One & Series X/S)

• Conversation Starters for Families

• Family Internet Safety Agreement

NSPCC Resources & Support

Talking to children openly about their online lives makes a significant difference. The NSPCC provides practical tools to help families stay informed:

• Open Conversations: Discussing your child's online activities should feel as natural as asking about their day at school.

• Keeping Safe: Access step-by-step guides on setting up family agreements, reviewing game ratings, and managing screen time safely via the NSPCC Online Safety Hub.