A recent survey at Harris told us that:

• 90% of Harris learners are on social networking sites
• 16% of learners have their parents blocked!
• 71% have shared images of themselves on the Internet
• only 45% have met everyone on their social network
• 6% have met someone off the Internet, and 28% would consider it
• A staggering 29% have accessed sites which they knew they shouldn’t be on

You will be aware that the internet hosts many exciting opportunities for education. The online world is a wonderful place for young people to explore, with unprecedented opportunities for learning and creativity, but just like the real world there are risks and dangers they should be aware of and which we should all act to protect them from.  As an academy we encourage the use of technology as an important part of our student’s development but always want them to spend their time online safely. As a parent/carer you can play a significant part in ensuring this is the case.

Just a few simple steps by you can help keep them safe and give young people the awareness to know what to do if they feel uncomfortable about anything they encounter while on the internet.  We will be having a school training event for recognising the online risks and dangers on Tuesday 7th July at 7pm – 8pm in Hope Hall.  As the content of this session will be quite graphic, we ask that it be an adult only event.

 

The session will suggest practical and simple ways in which you can ensure that your young person operates in a safe way, and doesn’t put themselves at risk of abuse, or accessing inappropriate content.  Also, ways in which you can help them if they do find themselves in danger, or at risk.
 

Could you please email me
at bradshaw.a@harriscofeacademy.co.uk with the following details:

• Name of young person
• Tutor group
• Number of adults attending the session

Yours sincerely

Anne-Marie Bradshaw
E-Safety Officer
Harris CofE Academy