The introduction of the new Computing curriculum aims to equip pupils with the knowledge, understanding and skills to use information and communication technology creatively and purposefully. A key aspect of this lies in being digitally literate. Online technologies play a huge role and so providing a broad and balanced e-safety education at each key stage is vital to ensuring that pupils can navigate the online world safely and positively. Details of the discreet digital literacy lessons which your children will be taught during Computing lessons and PSHE lessons at St John’s C of E Middle School academy are provided on this page.  

Online safety is well-embedded as part of our school practice and as well as the discreet units taught below, there are many other opportunities where children and staff focus and reinforce staying safe online across the complete Computing curriculum, across other curriculum areas, during school assemblies and through enrichment activities. You can also view our school online safety policy here which includes acceptable use of mobile phones.

We also provide e-safety awareness advice and training for staff, parents/carers and other stakeholders. All staff received Online safety training and complete an annual certificate in Online Safety. The Online safety policy has been created for the trust and moderated by Bromsgrove Middle School Leadership Partnership. High quality leadership and management make e-safety a priority across all areas of the school. 

Progressive Curriculum

KS2 National Curriculum: use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content, contact or conduct on the internet or other online technologies.

KS3 National curriculum: understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and know-how to report concerns.

 

As a parent, you'll know how important the Internet is to children - they use it to learn, explore, play, socialise, and express themselves.  It's a creative place of wonderful opportunities.  However, the technology children use every day can seem a bit daunting, and you might worry about the risks your child can face online - such as bullying, contact from strangers, or the possibility of them seeing illegal or inappropriate content. 

To help engage with your children regarding their use of the Internet while at home.  Here are some conversation starter ideas from www.childnet.com

• Ask your children to tell you about the sites they like to visit and what they enjoy doing online.
• Ask them about how they stay safe online. What tips do they have for you, and where did they learn them? What is OK and not OK to share?
• Ask them if they know where to go for help, find the safety advice, privacy settings, and how to report or block on the services they use.
• Could you encourage them to help? Perhaps they can show you how to do something better online, or they might have a friend who would benefit from their help and support.
• Think about how you use the Internet as a family. What could you do to get more out of the internet together and further enjoy your lives online?