Download our Information Booklet What is eSafety?
eSafety is the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology, including the internet, social media, online gaming, mobile devices and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Young people access online services in a variety of ways, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, games consoles and wearable devices.
The internet and digital technologies provide valuable opportunities for learning, communication, creativity and entertainment. However, they also present risks that users need to understand and manage. These risks can include cyberbullying, online scams, inappropriate content, misinformation, privacy concerns, online exploitation and excessive screen time.
As AI tools become increasingly common, it is important that young people also understand the potential risks associated with their use. These may include exposure to inaccurate or misleading information, the sharing of personal data with AI platforms, over-reliance on AI-generated content, deepfakes, manipulated images and videos, and the misuse of AI to create harmful, dishonest or inappropriate material. Developing critical thinking skills and understanding how to use AI responsibly are now key aspects of digital literacy.
Staying safe online is an increasingly complex issue, and King Edward VI College is committed to educating and supporting students in eSafety matters. Students receive guidance on safe online behaviour, digital wellbeing, cyber security, responsible social media use and the safe and ethical use of AI technologies. They also have access to a variety of resources, support and advice to help them navigate the digital world safely and confidently.
Parent Safe provides a wealth of information, guidance and advice to help parents keep their children safe online. Topics covered include online relationships, screen time, bullying, social media, fake news, scams, AI and deepfakes, online privacy, extremism and radicalisation, and practical steps for maintaining a safe digital environment at home.
Reporting eSafety and AI Issues
If you have any concerns about your child’s online safety, please contact Reception via 01384 398100 who will put you through to a member of the safeguarding team.
If you need immediate help, have serious concerns outside of college hours or in an emergency, contact 999 or your local police. You can find their number via http://www.police.uk/
CEOP are the UK Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre which is part of the UK law enforcement. Online concerns can be reported to CEOP:
“We [CEOP] help children stay safe online. Has someone acted inappropriately towards you online, or to a child or young person you know? It may be sexual chat, being asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable or someone being insistent on meeting up. You can report it to us:’.
AI Guidance for Parents and Carers.
Financially Motivated Sexual Extortion for Parents and Carers
You can also submit a CEOP report via Childnet.
‘At the heart of all our work is the belief that when used properly the Internet is a wonderfully positive tool for children and young people.
We strive to take a balanced approach, making sure that we promote the positive opportunities, as well as responding to the risks and equipping children and young people to deal with them’.
UK Safer Internet Centre is an EU funded project that aims to empower and protect children and young people when using the Internet. The website has a useful parent’s and carer’s page covering issues such as parental controls, parent’s guide to technology, advice, and resources.
A useful website that is managed by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre that is part of the UK law enforcement. CEOP consist of industry specialists/professionals who work alongside police officers in promoting online safety and eradicating abuse of children. It is important to note that, due to funding, the resources contained within this website are aimed at 5–16-year-olds, however it contains many useful and informative resources that apply to all young people and their parents/guardians.
A comprehensive, easy to read guide that addresses the safe and responsible use of social networking sites.
UK Safer Internets guide to security settings, includes advice and help on scammers, clickjacking, avoiding scams, monitoring account activity, and keeping your account safe and secure.
Cyberbullying – Advice for Parents and Carers
Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology, such as the Internet or a mobile device to bully others.
The term ‘sexting’ describes the use of technology to share personal sexual content. The content can vary, from text messages to images of partial nudity to sexual images or video. This content is usually created to be sent to a partner but can be between groups and can use a range of devices, technologies and online spaces. Photos and videos are often created via webcam or smartphone camera, and are shared on social networking sites.’
