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Online Safety

Online Safety at St Mark's Junior School

Welcome to the Online Safety information page for parents and carers at St Mark's Junior School. Keeping children safe online is a partnership between school and home, and this page provides clear, practical guidance to help you support your child in navigating the digital world safely.

Our Commitment to Online Safety

At St Mark's Junior School, we:

  • Teach pupils how to stay safe online through regular lessons and assemblies.
  • Use secure filtering and monitoring systems on all school devices.
  • Follow statutory safeguarding guidance and regularly review our online safety policies.
  • Encourage responsible, respectful and safe use of technology.
Helping Your Child Navigate the Online World

When it comes to educating your child about the internet, it can be challenging—especially when they are using websites, games or apps that may be unfamiliar. Open communication and awareness are key to keeping them safe.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying affects people of all ages and backgrounds—including children, teens and adults. It can make individuals feel distressed, isolated, and unsure of who to turn to for help.

At St Mark’s C of E Junior School, we take all forms of bullying seriously, including online bullying. Our pupils recognise bullying as STOP! – Several Times On Purpose.

What Is Bullying?

Bullying is defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, repeated over time, intended to give a feeling of power, status or gratification to the bully.

Our Responsibility

Our school has a responsibility to protect pupils from bullying, even when incidents occur:

  • Off-site
  • Online
  • Over the phone

If you are concerned about any messages your child has received:

  1. Use Print Screen to take a screenshot.
  2. Save the image or copy of the message.
  3. Email it to the Deputy Headteacher at deputy@st-marks.gloucs.sch.uk.

Restorative Justice

Where appropriate, we use restorative justice to find an appropriate and fair resolution for everyone involved. This approach helps pupils understand the impact of their actions and supports positive relationships moving forward.

Useful links to restorative justice resources can be added here if required.

How You Can Help at Home

Here are some simple ways to support your child’s online safety:

1. Talk Regularly About Online Safety

Discuss:

  • What they enjoy doing online
  • How to respond to worrying or unkind behaviour
  • Why personal information should be protected

2. Set Boundaries and Use Parental Controls

Parental controls can:

  • Block inappropriate content
  • Set time limits
  • Manage in-app purchases

These tools are available on most devices, broadband providers and apps.

3. Know What Your Child Is Using

Stay aware of the games, websites and apps your child uses. Some include social features such as chat or live streaming, which may need active supervision.

4. Encourage Responsible Behaviour

Remind children to:

  • Be kind and respectful online
  • Only interact with people they know in real life
  • Think before they post or share
What To Do If You’re Concerned

If your child experiences something upsetting online:

  1. Stay calm and listen.
  2. Reassure them they’ve done the right thing by telling you.
  3. Take screenshots or evidence.
  4. Report issues using in-app tools or contact the school.
  5. For serious concerns, visit www.ceop.police.uk.

We are always here to support you.

Useful Websites for Parents

These sites offer practical guides, videos and age-appropriate advice.

Staying Safe Together

Online safety is an ongoing conversation. By working together, we can ensure that children at St Mark’s Junior School enjoy the benefits of the digital world while staying safe, confident and supported. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please contact the school office.

Our Online Safety policy can be viewed here.

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