Online Safety
Online Safety at Alde Valley Academy
At Alde Valley Academy, our commitment to online safety is shaped by our core values: Aspire and Achieve, Lead with Kindness, and Stronger Together. We believe that helping students to thrive online is essential for their success, wellbeing, and sense of community.
Our Approach to Online Safety
- Aspire and Achieve: We empower our students to use technology to enhance their learning and aspirations, teaching them the skills they need to navigate the digital world safely and confidently.
- Lead with Kindness: We promote respectful and positive online behaviour, tackling issues like cyberbullying and digital wellbeing in our curriculum and school culture. Our staff model kindness and empathy online and offline.
- Stronger Together: We work in partnership with parents, carers, and the wider community to create a united approach to online safety. By sharing knowledge and resources, we help everyone stay informed and protected.
How We Keep Students Safe Online
- Robust Filtering and Monitoring: We use up-to-date filtering and monitoring systems in line with DfE standards, protecting students from harmful or inappropriate content while allowing safe learning.
- Clear Policies: Our policies on acceptable use of technology, including mobile phones and smart devices, are regularly updated and shared with students, staff, and families.
- Education for All: Online safety is embedded across lessons, assemblies, and workshops, so pupils understand risks such as cyberbullying, scams, and inappropriate content—and know how to seek help.
- Staff Training: All staff receive regular online safety training, ensuring they can support students and respond to concerns effectively. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) takes overall responsibility for online safety.
- Family Support: We provide parents and carers with guidance and resources to reinforce safe online behaviours at home, because we are stronger together when we work as a team.
Reporting Concerns
If you or your child has any concerns about online safety, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead at [DSL email/phone number]. Students and parents can also report concerns directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) service.
Useful Resources
For more details, please see our Online Safety Policy and Child Protection Policy.