Ramsgate Arts Primary is one of the Thanet schools embracing the global safer internet campaign aimed at children and adults.
To mark Safer Internet Day (February 6), children took part in a special assembly exploring the variety of ways they can be safe online, led by ICT co-ordinator Jamie Jackson.
They learnt the all-important message ‘create, connect, and share respect – a better internet starts with you’ through a series of interactive questions and from a short film.
Pupils have also reinforced the message with large display boards in the corridors with colourful pictures, slogans and artwork,
Head of School Nick Budge said: “Internet safety is paramount for children everywhere and at RAPS it is an important theme that we discuss with our children regularly.
“The use of the internet is a central part of their lives both in school and at home, and we want it to be safe as well as informative and fun for them and their families.
“We are underpinning the worldwide message using technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively.”
The UK Safer Internet Centre is working with hundreds of other organisations to encourage more conversations at school and at home about young people’s online lives and how their actions online can affect relationships, empowering young people to use digital technology wisely
Internet safety tips for children:
*Staying safe online – keep your personal information safe and check with an adult before you share anything online. Personal information includes your email address, phone number and passwords.
Never agree to meet up with someone you only know online. No matter how friendly they might seem or how well you think you know them, they are still a stranger. Always tell a trusted adult if someone online asks to meet up.
*Being a good friend – remember that behind every screen is a real person. Being kind and positive online is just as important as being kind and positive face-to-face.
*Saying sorry – even when we’re trying really hard to be a good friend online, things can still go wrong. If you ever upset someone online, even if it wasn’t on purpose, then saying sorry is a really powerful and positive action to take.
*Taking a step back – being online is great; there are so many fun and exciting things to do. But being connected all the time can get a little stressful. If being online is making you feel worried, upset or confused, it’s always worth taking a step back and having a break from your online activities.
*Asking for help – it is okay to feel worried or upset by something you see online; just make sure you speak to someone about it. Always tell an adult you trust if you see anything that worries you online.