Safeguarding Update

Digital Safety

This half term, our Year 7 students took part in an assembly on Digital Safety, exploring how to stay safe online and make positive choices when using digital platforms.

Key topics included:

• Keeping accounts private and protecting personal information.

• Understanding netiquette and respectful online behaviour.

• The laws around consent when sharing photos and personal details.

• The risks and consequences of sharing inappropriate material.

We encourage all parents and carers to discuss these points at home and maintain open conversations about what your child is accessing online. If you would like any advice or support with these discussions, please contact our Safeguarding Team, who will be happy to help.

Travel and Community Safety

All year groups will also take part in an assembly before the half-term break on how to stay safe when travelling to and from school, and during the holidays.

Key reminders include:

• Stay connected with friends and check in regularly.

• Walk with a friend or in a group, especially as nights get darker.

• Stick to main roads and well-lit areas.

• Keep your phone charged in case of emergency.

• Be alert to your surroundings and avoid distractions such as scrolling on your phone.

• Always use pedestrian crossings.

• When waiting for public transport, stand back from the kerb.

Firework Safety

As we approach firework season, students have also been reminded about the importance of staying safe during celebrations.

We recommend attending organised public displays rather than using fireworks at home.

Other key messages include:

• Keep a safe distance from fireworks and bonfires.

• Never return to a lit firework, even if it appears to have failed.

• Have a bucket or hose ready in case of fire.

Handling fireworks can lead to serious and irreversible injuries. Please reinforce these messages with your child and discuss the potential dangers, including:

• Burns: Severe injuries to the hands, face, or body.

• Eye injuries: Sparks or debris can cause lasting damage or blindness.

• Hearing loss: Loud explosions can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.

• Loss of limbs: Mishandling fireworks can result in traumatic injuries.

If you have any questions or need further support, please contact our Safeguarding Team.

We wish all our students and families a safe, happy, and restful half term.