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It is easier than ever for pupils to access the internet and have an online presence.
Pupils can access the internet using the following:
Computers/ Laptops
Mobile Phones
Games Consoles
Tablets
Using any online device exposes pupils to a number of risks and it’s important that they are aware of these and also steps are taken to reduce the potential problems that could arise from online use.
Squid Games – There have been reports in the media around the exposure of children to the Netflix show ‘squid games’. This report (from common sense media) talks about the violent nature of the show and the reason we urge parents not to let children younger than 16 watch the show or any content linked to it. Squid Game TV Review (commonsensemedia.org)
There have also been reports of the violence involved in Squid Games being linked/ replicated on other social media sites/ games for younger children such as tik-tok (13+ official age rating) and roblox (7+ official age rating).
The site below is a useful resource that explains what it is, it’s harmful content, practical tips and advice. https://oursaferschools.co.uk/2021/10/08/squid-game/
If you are worried your child may see or has seen something harmful please use the following links to find guidance to support parents, including useful guidance around parental controls. I’m worried my child might see something inappropriate online (thinkuknow.co.uk) What to do if your child has seen something inappropriate online. (thinkuknow.co.uk)
Further useful links recommended by the Southampton Education Welfare Service;
Cyberbullying refers to any offensive or aggressive comments and acts that are delivered using a digital platform. This can be done over email, social media, text or video uploading websites/ apps.
This can include:
Cyberbullying is not a criminal offense but more offensive material can result in police intervention under the following:
It is vitally important that any instances of cyberbullying are NOT deleted and kept as evidence of the event. This can be retention of text messages or screen grabs (social media/ video etc).
Are you worried about the way someone has been communicating with you online?
Make a report to one of CEOP’s Child Protection Advisors
https://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
At school cyberbullying is dealt with pastorally.
The school uses a Conflict resolution system to deal with bullying and conflict at school and cyberbullying can be resolved in the same way.
As a school we will address issues of cyberbullying but this can be difficult as a lot of incidents occur outside of school. As parents/ carers we hope you are able to support your child and help them use the strategies discussed tonight to address incidents of cyberbullying at home.
Social media refers to apps and websites that allow people to interact socially with peers.
However, it is the case that social media is used in negative ways and can be used for cyberbullying and also access to inappropriate content.
The main social media platforms are:
There are many others that all perform similar things.
Although they have potential dangers, each of these apps/sites have instructions for blocking individuals and reporting offensive content. This can be found on their sites or using a Google search; “how to block people on Facebook” for example.
As a school we have seen an increase in social media incidents so monitoring your child’s social media use can help prevent these incidents.
Many video games can be played online.
Many games have online modes where pupils can play games with their friends but also strangers from anywhere in the world.
This could potentially expose your child to the dangers associated with online contact with strangers and should be considered when allowing your child to game online.
Dove House School Academy, Sutton Road,