At Highfield, we are committed to helping children stay safe when using the internet and digital technology. Online safety is a shared responsibility between school and home, and this page brings together everything parents, carers, pupils and staff need in one place.

We use guidance from CEOP Education, CEOP Educational Recourse, NSPCC and national safeguarding partners to help families understand risks and keep children safe online.

Online Safety in School

We teach pupils how to stay safe online through age‑appropriate lessons, discussions, and practical activities. This includes:

• Understanding what safe and unsafe behaviour online looks like
• Knowing when and how to speak to a trusted adult
• Being aware of peer pressure and online trends
  (These risks are highlighted in Highfield’s Online Safety guide.) [Safeguarding Policy]
• Learning how to use school systems safely and responsibly
• Knowing what to do if something online feels wrong or concerning

Filters and monitoring systems are in place to reduce access to inappropriate or harmful material.

Online Safety at Home (Guidance for Parents & Carers)

Children increasingly access the internet independently at home. These simple steps help keep them safe:

✔ Use parental controls and device restrictions

Guidance on setting up restrictions is available on the Highfield Online Safety resource.
[Safeguarding Policy]

✔ Talk regularly with your child

NSPCC and CEOP both emphasise the importance of open communication to help children feel confident sharing concerns.
[Safeguarding Information]

✔ Be aware of trends and viral challenges

Highfield’s guide highlights the risk of harmful online challenges and peer pressure.
[Safeguarding Policy]

✔ Check apps, games, and websites first

Look at age ratings and review content before children access it. [Safeguarding Policy]

✔ Know where to get help

Information on CEOP, NSPCC and IWF reporting routes is provided in the support section below.
[Safeguarding Information]

CEOP Education

CEOP’s education platform provides excellent age‑group resources designed for children, parents and professionals.
[Bolton Safeguarding]

Recommended links:

• Ages 4–7: Jessie & Friends activities
• Ages 8–10: Band Runner and scenario‑based lessons
• Ages 11–13: Online choices, relationships and safe decision‑making
• Ages 14+: Managing online risks and independence
• Parents & Carers: Clear guidance and conversation starters

Visit: [CEOP Education]

Reporting Online Concerns

If you’re worried about something a child has seen or experienced online, here’s who can help:

✔ CEOP Safety Centre

For concerns involving grooming, inappropriate communication, or a child feeling pressured or unsafe online.
CEOP Advisors support children and families directly.

[CEOP Safety Centre]

✔ NSPCC Online Safety Helpline

For general guidance, advice and support about a child’s online experiences.
[Keeping children safe online | NSPCC]
NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000
Under 18? call 0800 1111

✔ Internet Watch Foundation (IWF)

For reporting harmful or illegal online content.
[Eliminating Child Sexual Abuse Online | Internet Watch Foundation IWF]

✔ In an emergency

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Staff Guidance: Working Online With Children

Staff follow best‑practice guidance when working online with pupils, including:

• Using school‑approved platforms
• Maintaining professional boundaries
• Not contacting pupils via personal accounts
• Following safeguarding protocols for remote communication

These align with safer working practices referenced in Highfield’s safeguarding documentation.
[Safeguarding]

Staff should speak to the DSL if they are unsure about any aspect of online communication or behaviour.

Who to Contact at School

If you have any concerns about your child’s online safety, please contact one of our Designated Safeguarding Leads.

School Telephone : 01204 571749
Email : office@highfield.bolton.sch.uk

We are here to help and can guide you on whether to speak to CEOP, NSPCC, or other agencies.