E-Safety at Shefford Lower School

At Shefford Lower School, keeping children safe online is just as important as keeping them safe in the classroom. Technology plays a vital role in learning and we are committed to ensuring that all pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to use it safely, responsibly and respectfully.

Our Approach

Our e-safety education is embedded across the curriculum and supports the objectives set out in the UK Council for Internet Safety guidance and the Department for Education statutory framework for Relationships, Health and Sex Education (RHSE).

We teach children to:

•  Stay safe online and protect personal information
•  Understand privacy and security settings
• Recognise and report online bullying
•  Identify reliable and unreliable online content
• Use technology respectfully and responsibly
• Know what to do if something online makes them feel worried or unsafe

E-safety lessons are delivered through our Computing and PSHE curriculum, themed assemblies, class discussions and special awareness days.

Teaching Children to Be Digitally Responsible

We focus on developing positive digital citizens. Children are encouraged to:

• Think before they post or share
• Treat others with kindness online
• Understand that their digital footprint lasts
• Speak to a trusted adult if they are concerned

We regularly revisit key messages in an age-appropriate way, ensuring children build their understanding year by year.

Filtering, Monitoring and Safeguarding

Our school has robust filtering and monitoring systems in place to protect pupils while they use school devices and the internet. Staff receive regular safeguarding and e-safety training to ensure they are confident in supporting children.

Online safety concerns are managed in line with our safeguarding policy.

Working in Partnership with Parents and Carers

We believe online safety works best when school and home work together. We:

• Share regular updates and guidance with families
• Offer information sessions where possible
• Provide links to trusted support organisations such as NSPCC and Childnet.

We encourage parents and carers to talk openly with their children about their online experiences and to set clear boundaries at home.

Reporting a Concern

If a child is worried about something they have seen or experienced online, they are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult at school. Parents and carers can contact the school office or the Designated Safeguarding Lead Mrs Parry directly.

Online Safety for Parents and Carers