Online Safety

At St Cuthbert's, we want every child to enjoy the benefits of technology while learning how to use it safely, responsibly and respectfully.

Children learn about online safety through our Computing, PSHE and Relationships Education curricula, as well as assemblies, classroom discussions and special events throughout the year. This learning is based on the Education for a Connected World framework, which helps children develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital world safely and confidently.

How Parents Can Help

Research consistently shows that one of the best ways to keep children safe online is through regular, open conversations at home. We encourage parents and carers to:

  • Talk regularly about what your child enjoys doing online. 
  • Encourage them to tell a trusted adult if something online worries, upsets or confuses them. 
  • Use parental controls and content filters on devices and home broadband. 
  • Check privacy and safety settings on apps, games and websites. 
  • Follow age ratings and minimum age requirements. 
  • Remind children never to share personal information, passwords or photographs without permission. 
  • Know how to report, block and mute users on the platforms their child uses. 

Screen Time and Healthy Digital Habits

There is no recommended number of hours that is right for every child. Instead, experts encourage families to focus on balance and wellbeing rather than simply counting minutes spent online. [nspcc.org.uk], [gov.uk]

Helpful habits include:

  • Creating screen-free times during family meals.
  • Avoiding screens shortly before bedtime.
  • Keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight where possible.
  • Encouraging physical activity, hobbies and outdoor play.
  • Using technology together and taking an interest in your child's online world.
  • Modelling positive digital habits as adults. [nspcc.org.uk], [saferinternet.org.uk]

Remember that educational activities, creativity and communication can all be positive uses of technology when they are age-appropriate and well supervised. 

Social Media

Most social media platforms require users to be at least 13 years old.

Primary-aged children should not have unrestricted access to social media. We encourage parents and carers to follow age ratings, use parental controls, regularly review privacy settings and maintain open conversations about online experiences. [saferinternet.org.uk], [nspcc.org.uk]

If your child uses social media, it is important to:

  • Review privacy settings together.
  • Discuss respectful online behaviour.
  • Talk about what should and should not be shared online.
  • Check regularly which apps and platforms are being used.
  • Ensure children know how to block, report and seek help if needed. [saferinternet.org.uk], [nspcc.org.uk]

Upcoming Changes

In 2026, the UK Government announced plans to introduce legislation restricting access to major social media platforms for children under 16. The proposals are expected to come into force during Spring 2027 and would be supported by stronger age-verification measures. The Government has indicated that platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X are likely to be included, while messaging services such as WhatsApp are not currently expected to be part of the restrictions. 

Parents and carers do not need to take any action at present. Further information will be provided nationally before any changes are introduced. 

What To Do If Something Goes Wrong

If your child experiences something online that makes them feel unsafe, worried or threatened:

  1. Stay calm and listen.
  2. Reassure them that they have done the right thing by telling you.
  3. Save evidence, such as screenshots or messages.
  4. Use the reporting tools within the app, game or website.
  5. Seek support from school where appropriate.
  6. Contact CEOP if you are concerned about online grooming, exploitation or sexual abuse. [ceopeducation.co.uk], [ceop.police.uk]

Useful Websites for Parents and Carers

General Online Safety

Apps, Games and Social Media

Parental Controls

Reporting Concerns

Our Key Message

The best online safety tool is an ongoing conversation. By talking regularly about online experiences, setting clear boundaries and showing an interest in your child's digital life, you can help them enjoy the opportunities of technology safely and responsibly. [ceopeducation.co.uk], [nspcc.org.uk], [saferinternet.org.uk]