In today’s digital age, modern technology grants us access to a vast array of websites and videos with just a click of a mouse or a touch of the screen. However, not all these online resources are appropriate for viewing. How can we ensure that accidental or intentional visits to inappropriate content are prevented?
At The Abbey, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our students, both in the physical and digital realms. We adhere to the statutory guidance outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), which mandates schools and colleges in England to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. As part of our commitment to this duty, we continuously update and review our practices, including our approach to filtering and monitoring online activities.
Our filtering and monitoring systems operate through a layered approach. We have policies and restrictions in place on all school-owned or issued devices, preventing the installation or execution of unauthorised software. Additionally, we enforce safe search features provided by major search engines like Google and Bing, ensuring that search results are filtered to display only appropriate content. This extends to platforms like YouTube, where restricted mode limits the viewing of suitable videos.
Furthermore, our firewall monitors downloads and web traffic, blocking any malicious software from being downloaded or leaving our network. This comprehensive approach safeguards not only our devices and infrastructure but also our valuable data.
Our filtering provider is designed for educational institutions and operates on a cloud-based system, ensuring consistent filtering levels even on devices issued to students, such as iPads and Surfaces, when they are used outside of school premises. It also offers detailed reports and analysis to track how the internet is being used and spot any possible dangers.
However, we recognise that technology alone cannot guarantee online safety. Therefore, we place equal emphasis on education, guidance, and advice to allow students to navigate the online world responsibly. These essential skills are integrated into our everyday school life and can be used well beyond their time at The Abbey.
Here are a few key points to help you stay safe online:
Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Be sceptical of Strangers: Exercise caution when interacting with unknown individuals online, including friend requests or messages.
Think Before Clicking: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources to prevent exposure to viruses, malware, or phishing attempts.
Trust Your Instincts: If something seems suspicious or uncomfortable online, trust your instincts and take appropriate action, such as logging off or reporting the issue.
By following these guidelines and leveraging our comprehensive safety measures, we aim to create a secure and safe online environment for all members of our school community.
James Brown, Head of IT Operations
