E-Safety

Purpose

To create a safe digital learning environment by educating students, staff, and families on how to use the internet responsibly, protect personal information, and recognise and report online threats or abuse.

Who is it For?

Students (primary to secondary)
School staff and teachers
Parents and guardians

Key Areas of Online Safety

Digital Citizenship

Treat others respectfully online
Think critically about what is shared and viewed
Understand the impact of digital footprints

Personal Information Protection

Never share full name, address, phone number, school name, or password
Use strong, unique passwords and change them regularly

Cyberbullying Prevention

Don’t send or share mean or hurtful messages
Report any bullying behavior to a trusted adult
Support others who may be targeted

Appropriate Content and Behavior

Only access age-appropriate websites and apps
Avoid sharing or viewing explicit or violent content
Always follow school policies on acceptable use

Social Media Awareness

Think before you post—what you share can last forever
Understand privacy settings and use them effectively
Be aware of scams, catfishing, and inappropriate contact

Online Strangers and Grooming

Never meet someone in person that you've only met online
Report any suspicious or uncomfortable online contact immediately

Scams, Phishing, and Malware

Don’t click suspicious links or download unapproved files
Understand what phishing emails look like
Keep school devices and software updated and secure

Education and Training

Students - Regular digital literacy lessons and internet safety workshops
Staff - Annual online safety training and safeguarding updates
Parents - Online safety guides, resources, and events to stay informed

Reporting and Support

Encourage students to speak to a trusted adult (teacher, counselor, parent) if they feel unsafe online
Use school’s reporting tools for cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or suspicious behavior
Immediate risks may be escalated to:
- School safeguarding officer
- Local authorities
- Online platforms
- Police (if necessary)

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

All students must sign and follow the school's AUP, which outlines:

Responsible use of school internet and devices
Consequences for misuse
Guidelines for email, chats, and online collaboration tools

Review and Updates

The school’s online safety policies are reviewed:

Annually
Following any major incident
To keep up with new technologies and threats

Resources (Examples)