Online Learning and Safety

Online Safety at Kempston Academy

At Kempston Academy, we understand that technology and the internet are essential to your child’s learning experience. We take pride in our proactive approach to educating students about e-safety and the responsible use of technology.

E-safety is embedded in the ICT curriculum and reinforced through PSHCE activities throughout the year.

All users are expected to behave responsibly and use the network for educational purposes only.

Educating Students About Online Safety

As part of their ICT lessons, students are taught about the potential dangers of social networking and their responsibilities when communicating online.

Mobile Phone Policy

We acknowledge that mobile phones play a significant role in the daily lives of young people, helping them stay safe on their way to and from school. However, mobile phones can also be a distraction during the school day. To maintain focus, students are required to switch off their phones when entering the school grounds and keep them in their bags until the end of the day.

Teachers may, in very exceptional circumstances, permit the use of mobile devices as learning tools in class, but if a phone is used without permission, it will be confiscated.

Staying Safe Online

Ensuring safety when using computers and the internet, both in and out of school, is crucial. To help students stay safe, we recommend following these guidelines:

Report concerns: If something online worries you, tell your teacher or parent/carer immediately. Don’t worry—you won’t be blamed for someone else’s actions.
Be responsible: Always behave responsibly and appropriately when using computers, the internet, and mobile devices. Remember: Sensible and Safe.
Consult your planner: Refer to the Guidance Pages in your planner for further advice.
Evaluate information: Not everything you find on the internet is truthful or accurate—think critically about the content you encounter.
Protect personal information: Never share personal details or post pictures online without permission from a teacher or parent/carer, even if someone appears to be your age.
Keep your password safe: Your password is private. Use a strong password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers, and never share it with anyone.
Respect school safety systems: School safety measures are in place to protect you. Never attempt to bypass these systems—doing so is a serious violation of the Code of Conduct.
Seek permission: Always ask a teacher or parent/carer before posting anything on public websites or sending personal information.

Remember your digital footprint: Your online activity is permanent. Think carefully before you act.