Paul Whiteman, General Secretary, NAHT

During lockdown internet access has proved to be an essential educational tool for many young people, but the increase in the amount of time they are spending at a computer means that it has never been more important for young people to be safe and secure whilst online.

NAHT is a long-time supporter of Safer Internet Day. We want young people to be informed consumers of technology, safe enough to surf the internet without fear and smart enough to know what to do if they see inappropriate content.

Whilst schools can offer guidance to pupils about staying safe online during lessons like PSHE, social media and technology companies must also exercise a duty of care to make sure their services are safe.

Safer Internet Day is a great way to make sure young people are ‘switched on’ about the risks and benefits of going online.