Online Safety
At Priestlands School we take Online Safety seriously. In this section of the website, you can find out more about the guidance we are giving to our students on how to keep themselves and others safe online.
Managing digital lives
It can be hard to keep up with the fast-changing digital world your child moves through every day. From social media and gaming to online learning and messaging, the online space is constantly evolving — and knowing how to support your child with confidence isn’t always easy.
To help, the Children’s Commissioner for England, working alongside children and young people, has created a new practical guide designed to make conversations about online life easier and more positive for families.
The guide includes a dedicated activity pack for children and young people, giving families the opportunity to explore digital habits together.
Children’s Commissioner’s Digital Guide
If you are at risk online, you should report it to CEOP, you can do this by clicking this button:
News
Online Safety Update for Parents and Carers
Online Safety Update for Parents and Carers
Dear Parents and Carers,
We want to make you aware of a new government campaign designed to support families in keeping children safe online.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Department for Education (DfE) have launched a dedicated website offering practical guidance to help you support your child’s online wellbeing.
The site includes:
· Conversation tips to help you talk to your child about staying safe online
· Age‑specific advice tailored to different stages of a child’s life
· Guidance on parental controls and how to use them effectively
You can access the new website here: Online content
These resources are designed to help parents and carers feel confident in guiding children towards safe, positive and responsible use of technology.
If you would like any additional advice or support, please contact the school’s safeguarding team.
Keeping Children Safe Online
As part of our safeguarding responsibilities and in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025, the school uses monitoring and filtering systems on school devices, accounts and networks to help keep children safe online.
These systems help us identify potential safeguarding concerns, such as exposure to harmful content or signs that a child may be at risk, so we can act promptly to support pupils.
These tools are used solely for safeguarding and wellbeing purposes and are an important part of our commitment to keeping children safe both in school and when using school-managed technology.
If you have any questions about our online safety arrangements, please contact the school.
OMETV
We have become aware that some of our students are accessing OMETV, a platform that connects users with random strangers. This comes with significant risks, including exposure to inappropriate content and unsafe contacts.
Please take a moment to check your child’s phone and have a conversation with them about staying safe online.
For more information, please see this excellent parent guide: InternetMatters.org
Thank you for your continued support in helping keep students safe online.
Hayley Yates
Assistant Headteacher & Designated Safeguarding Lead