Events such as Safer Internet Day are an effective and important way to increase awareness of online safety. This year’s theme ‘An internet we trust: exploring reliability in the online world’ focuses on how we can decide what to trust online. False and misleading content online can be upsetting and confusing and we all have a role in supporting our young people to question, challenge and change the online world for the better. The internet is a rich source of information and entertainment and opens up exciting opportunities for teaching and learning. However we must all remain vigilant to the dangers and ensure that young people are not only protected, but also have the skills they need to be able to make the best decisions as they navigate an online world where everything is not always as it seems.

I am pleased to confirm that my Department continues to work to ensure not only that our children and young people are supported in staying safe online but also that teachers, parents and carers are given the knowledge and support they need as well.   

Safeguarding children is of paramount importance and C2k’s Education Network service, available to all pupils, has been designed with a clear focus on eSafety with built in controls to protect users as well as operating a rigorous internet filtering policy.