At Earlsdon Primary School, we take eSafety extremely seriously.  Children and young people should have an entitlement to safe online access at all times. The internet and other digital and information technologies are powerful tools, which open up new and exciting opportunities. Electronic communication helps teachers and pupils learn from each other. These technologies can stimulate discussion and promote creativity. However, with these benefits, new technologies present risks that need to be addressed both within and outside school.

What is eSafety?

eSafety is not just related to the internet. It also includes risks related to the use of computers, games consoles, mobile phones, televisions and tablets. Risks posed may include -

• Access to illegal, harmful or inappropriate images or other content
• Unauthorized access to / loss of / sharing of personal information
• The risk of being subject to grooming by those with whom they make contact on the internet.
• The sharing / distribution of personal images without an individual’s consent or knowledge
• Inappropriate communication / contact with others, including strangers
• Cyber-bullying
• Access to unsuitable video / internet games

What is Digital Literacy?

Digital Literacy is a child's ability to use and access online resources in a safe, responsible and discerning way. Issues associated with this include -

• An inability to evaluate the quality, accuracy and relevance of information on the internet
• Unauthorized access to / loss of / sharing of personal information
• Plagiarism and copyright infringement
• Illegal downloading of music or video files
• The potential for excessive use which may impact on the social and emotional development and learning of the young person.

The new Computing curriculum has put a large emphasis on eSafety and ‘Digital Literacy’ and at school we work with the children to teach them how to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly. We believe that it is the right of every child to feel safe and secure when using technology.

How do we teach and promote eSafety and Digital Literacy?

• Each year, we take part in Safer Internet Day as a school, raising the profile of eSafety across the school. This year, the theme is 'Be the Change: Unite for a better Internet'
• As part of our Computing Curriculum, each year group follows a set of Digital Literacy lessons designed to introduce the children to different aspects of eSafety at a level appropriate for the class. Wider issues covering conduct online are also addressed, such as respect for copyright.
• Expectations for behavior online are established in classes as part of our work on blogs and websites. Any issues are also discussed as part of class PSHE and Circle Times.
• Digital Literacy is promoted in assemblies through themed songs and age appropriate videos
• The school actively monitors online access, blocks inappropriate content and will take action if such content is attempted to be accessed within school. Any serious concerns are addressed as part of the school’s wider safeguarding actions.