Keeping pupils safe online - resources for teachers

Keeping pupils safe online - resources for teachers

With more than a third of teenagers spending at least 3 hours on social media daily according to some estimates, the online world is increasingly having an impact in the classroom.

Social media can be a valuable tool for self-expression, learning and entertainment. However, it can also expose young people to a wide range of risks. Cyber-bullying, inappropriate content and toxic influencer culture are just a few of the potential dangers they face.

According to figures from Ofcom, over 67% of young people have come across harmful content online, with almost 20% of children aged eight to 15 having experienced online bullying. Schools across the UK have expressed concerns over the effect of influencers on attitudes and behaviour, with some holding special assemblies and lessons in response.

Given the vital role teachers play in safeguarding their pupils, an awareness of online safety issues and where to turn for support is more important than ever.

Online Safety Resources

We asked South West Grid for Learning (SWGfL), a leading online safety charity that forms part of the UK Safer Internet Centre, to share some of their top resources for teachers concerned about the online safety of their pupils.

David Wright, CEO of SWGfL and Director of the UK Safer Internet Centre spoke to us about the importance of online safety: ‘’For over 20 years we have seen the vast development of online technology. Every year, this evolution brings new challenges that teachers and education professionals need to be aware of so they can continue to support young people with their use of technology, free from harm. These free resources are there to provide school communities with the right tools to develop their approach towards online safety. Everyone should benefit from technology free from harm and we hope these can guide and support you along the way’’

  • ProjectEVOLVE offers teachers a range of curriculum resources to help students develop their knowledge around a variety of online scenarios. The award winning free online toolkit explores a wide variety of topics such as misinformation and online bullying.

 

  • 360 Safe is a free tool that supports schools with developing their online safety policy and practice. Work towards appropriate standards and get certified when achievements are met.

 

  • The SWGfL Digital Wellbeing Hub offers guidance and information to support young people to navigate the online world in a positive way. The hub features guidance and advice about influencers, influencer content and how young people can manage what content they see.

 

  • The SWGfL Social Media Hub explores how young people can enjoy social media in a positive way. The page includes a focus on the topic of misinformation, how young people can manage this content and how they can develop their understanding around the content they are seeing.

 

  • The Report Harmful Content Service provides support for anyone over the age of 13 to report legal but harmful content across a wide variety of social media channels and platforms. Schools and colleges can also download a Report Harmful Content Button and install it on their websites, offering pupils and parents an easy way to report harmful online content.

 

 

  • The SWGfL Social Media Checklists, created in partnership with the UK Safer Internet Centre, are designed to support young people in managing their security and privacy on social media. Checklists are available for platforms including Yubo, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat, and are suitable for teachers, parents, carers and students.

 

  • SWGfL also run free Online Safety Live events, designed exclusively for professionals working with children and young people. These events ensure that professionals can stay informed about online technology and practices to keep young people safe.

 

  • Finally, podcast listeners can stay up to date with the most prevalent online safety issues by listening to Interface, SWGfL’s new podcast series. Previous episodes explore online wellbeing, bullying and social media. Bobby Seagull, Alex Holmes (of the Diana Award charity) and TikTok’s Alexandra Evans have all joined the interface presenters. Listen to all episodes here.

The UK Safer Internet Centre will coordinate Safer Internet Day in the UK on Tuesday 7th February 2023. Learn more about the event and register your support.