Online Safety
What are the issues?
The internet – on the whole is an inspiring and positive place.
The internet is an amazing resource which enables children and young people to connect, communicate and be creative in a number of different ways, on a range of devices.
However, the internet is always changing, and being able to keep up to date with your children’s use of technology can be a challenge.
You may sometimes feel that your children have better technical skills than you do, however children and young people still need advice and protection when it comes to managing their lives online.
Issues that your child may encounter on the internet will vary depending on their age and online activities.
School online safety policy
Organisations and websites offering further information and support for online safety:
Play Like Share –
Play Like Share follows the adventures of Sam, Ellie and Alfie as they form a band and enter their school’s Battle of the Bands contest, taking on the mean but ‘cool’ Popcorn Wizards as they go. The three friends learn that while the internet can help, they need to use it wisely and safely.
The aim of the films is to help 8-10 year olds learn how to stay safe online. In particular, the films teach them to spot the early signs of manipulative, pressurising and threatening behaviour by people they might meet online, and develops their confidence to respond safely and get help.
Be Share Aware –
Keep your child safe online
We tell our children it’s good to share – but online it’s different. In fact sometimes sharing online can be dangerous. Being Share Aware will help keep your child safe online.
Watch and share a short film and take a look at some straightforward advice that will untangle the web, and give parents confidence in talking to their children about how to stay safe online.
Issues
Advice
‘Safety and Well-being: Pupils feel safe at the school, describing it as a “safe spot”. There is a strong culture of safeguarding, with effective systems in place to report and follow up on concerns. The pastoral team works tirelessly to ensure the welfare of all pupils.’
‘Reading is a priority, with an effective phonics program starting in early years, fostering a love for reading among pupils.’
‘Personal Development: Personal development at the school is rated “Outstanding”. The curriculum provides a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school gates, including educational visits and active citizenship opportunities.’
‘Pupils feel safe and have positive attitudes towards learning, understanding and demonstrating the school’s values.’
‘Reading and Literacy: Reading is prioritised, with an effective phonics program starting in the early years. Pupils’ love for reading is nurtured through various competitions and a well-stocked library.’
‘The quality of education at the school is “Good”, with a broad and inspiring curriculum that builds knowledge progressively.’
‘Pupils thrive in an inclusive, nurturing environment where their accomplishments are celebrated.’
‘Quality of Education: The quality of education provided is considered “Good”. The curriculum is broad, inspiring, and well-thought-out, enabling pupils to build on their knowledge progressively.’
‘Behaviour and Attitudes: Behaviour and attitudes at the school are rated “Good”. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate a strong understanding of the school’s values.’
‘Leadership and Management: Leadership and management are rated “Good”. Leaders have high ambitions for every pupil, and there is a strong culture of mutual support and teamwork among the staff. The governing body and trustees are knowledgeable and committed to the success of the pupils.’
‘The Ribbon Academy is rated as “Good” overall, reflecting high standards in various aspects of school performance.’
‘Parents are highly supportive of the school, agreeing that their children are happy and well-supported.’
‘Behaviour and attitudes are rated “Good”, with pupils showing positive behaviour both in and out of lessons.’
‘Early Years Provision: The provision for early years is rated “Outstanding”. The staff provide an exceptional range of carefully planned learning activities that encourage curiosity, independence, and the development of spoken language from day one.’
‘Leadership and management are “Good”, demonstrating high ambitions for all pupils and a strong culture of mutual support among staff.’
‘Personal development is “Outstanding”, offering a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school.’
‘Community and Extracurricular Activities: Pupils engage in activities like ‘Ribbon Radio’ and the ‘Poets’ Podium’, developing confidence and showcasing their talents. The school also runs breakfast clubs, after-school activities, and a community café, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.’
‘Early years provision is rated “Outstanding”, with staff providing a magical learning journey that encourages curiosity and independence.’
‘The school provides rich extracurricular opportunities, such as “Ribbon Radio” and the “Poets’ Podium”, which help develop pupils’ confidence.’
‘The school has a strong safeguarding culture, with effective systems in place to ensure the welfare and safety of all pupils.’
‘Inclusivity and Nurturing Environment: The school is described as inclusive and nurturing, with high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and achievements. Celebratory displays showcase pupils’ accomplishments, creating a positive and inspiring learning environment.’