Parent Information
Safety & Security
When your child brings a school computer home it is important to note that the responsibility for safety and security cannot remain with the school alone. Parents need to take responsibility to ensure that their child, and the equipment, are not put at unnecessary risk. This means taking some sensible precautions that your school will advise you of when you join their programme.
The computer that the school will provide will usually include insurance against theft and damage. They will also usually install special software that will help protect your child and the equipment from viruses. However, there is no software that can fully protect your child from opening undesirable websites or from other risks that are becoming more prevalent such as online bullying. Parents are advised to be proactive in monitoring what their child is using the equipment for, and particularly what they are doing on social networking sites like Facebook.
Your broadband service may come with parental controls. If you are unsure, call your service provider.
Useful sources of information
Various organisations provide advice and guidance for parents and carers on using technology safely in the home. A selection is listed here.
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UK Safer Internet Centre - provide the latest advice on how to use the internet and new technologies safely and responsibly. They also offer a range of practical resources, news and events focussing on the safe and responsible use of the internet and new technologies.
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Childnet International provides a range of resources to support schools in sharing e-safety information with parents and carers, including an interactive Know IT All for Parents resource.
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ParentsCentre - provides a section on using computers and the internet, which includes a range of resources and tools including information ranging from buying a home PC to searching the internet, and online communities and gaming.
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Get Safe Online - includes a ten-minute internet safety guide, and sections on protecting yourself and your family online, and information on children and young people and the internet.
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Vodafone - has loads of interesting articles and useful tips plus a good digital parenting checklist and advice on safe use of mobiles.
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Microsoft Safety & Security cenntre includes how to make the most of Microsoft Windows 7 parental controls.
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Google Safesearch - offers a guide to setting up your seach engine's safety filters.
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Kids and Media - offer a wide range of useful tips on internet safety for children.
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