Online safety at HTSJ

The internet gives children wonderful opportunities to learn, create and stay connected. It can also bring risks, from upsetting content and unkind messages to contact with people they do not know. At Holy Trinity and St John’s, we help children enjoy the benefits of technology while learning how to use it safely and responsibly.

What we do in school

Online safety is part of our wider safeguarding work. We teach it through Computing, PSHE and everyday conversations, using language and examples that suit children’s ages. Children learn to protect personal information, treat others kindly, think carefully about what they see, and ask a trusted adult for help when something feels wrong.

We supervise children’s use of technology in school and use appropriate filtering and monitoring on school systems. These measures help us identify and respond to concerns, but no technical system can prevent every risk. Teaching children what to do, listening to them and acting promptly remain just as important.

Staff follow our safeguarding procedures when a child shares a worry or an online concern comes to our attention. We listen without blame, consider the child’s needs and involve parents or carers where appropriate. Serious concerns may need support from other safeguarding services.

Working together with families

Children’s online lives do not stop at the school gate. You can help by taking an interest in the games, apps and videos your child enjoys, checking age guidance and privacy settings, and agreeing simple family rules for using devices.

Regular, calm conversations work well. Remind your child that they can tell you or another trusted adult if they see something upsetting, receive an unkind message or are contacted by someone who makes them uncomfortable. They should know they will be listened to, even if they clicked on something by mistake.

If you would like help with parental controls, an app or a concern about your child’s online experiences, please speak to us. You do not need to wait until you are certain something is wrong.

If something happens online

If your child tells you about a problem, thank them for telling you and reassure them that they are not in trouble. Avoid replying to a worrying message. Where it is safe and appropriate, keep a record of what happened, then use the service’s reporting tools and contact the school if your child needs support or another pupil is involved.

For a safeguarding concern, speak to a member of our safeguarding team or email safeguarding1@htsj.school. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. You can also report concerns about online sexual abuse or grooming to CEOP.

Useful support

• Internet Matters — practical advice on devices, games and parental controls.

• NSPCC online safety advice — guidance for families and conversation starters.

• CEOP Education for parents and carers — advice about online abuse and how to get help.

• Childline — confidential support for children.

Our message to children is simple: if anything online worries you, tell a trusted adult. We will listen and help.