New technologies have become integral to the lives of children in a variety of contexts in today’s society, both within schools and in their lives outside school. The Internet and other sources of ICT are powerful tools, which give access to a range of opportunities for everyone. Through the use of the Internet in school, children become stimulated and creative learners, developing skills in research, e-mailing and video conferencing. There are dangers to the use of the internet if used inappropriately, therefore children are entitled to access a safe internet at all times through North Yorkshire LEA safety filters and understanding of the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

This Acceptable Use Policy is intended to ensure:

•   that young people will be responsible users and stay safe while using the internet and other communications technologies for educational, personal and recreational use.

•   that school ICT systems and users are protected from accidental or deliberate misuse that could put the security of the systems and users at risk.

•   that parents and carers are aware of the importance of e-safety and are involved in the education and guidance of young people with regard to their on-line behaviour.

To comply with the school’s Acceptable Use Policy and to use the Internet in a safe environment, pupils are asked to complete and sign the policy as part of the e-safety aspect of the Computing curriculum.

There is a large number of websites available to gain more information on e-safety, one of the largest organisations is CEOP which has this child friendly site.