At Co-op Academy Belle Vue, we are committed to ensuring our students have equitable access to IT and the internet to support their learning. All students are provided with Chromebooks to use at school and at home to support their independent learning. Whilst ensuring our students are equipped to use IT, we also ensure that we have systems in place to ensure they are safe whilst online and using their chromebooks safely and appropriately.

How do we keep our students safe online?

To ensure a secure digital learning environment, we use a monitoring and web filtering platform designed specifically for education. 

 

This programme actively safeguards IT use through smart web filtering that blocks access to inappropriate or harmful content, circumvention attempts, and unsafe websites. The system continuously monitors typed activity, search queries, and digital communications using expert-developed keyword libraries to detect potential risks, such as cyberbullying, self-harm, or online exploitation, before they escalate.

 

When concerning behaviour is flagged, it automatically captures contextual evidence and immediately alerts our Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs), allowing our team to intervene swiftly and support students when needed. 

How do we educate our students about online safety?

• All students are explicitly taught about online safety through our CARE curriculum. This content is revisited in line current issues each half term 

• All students are reminded about online safety through our morning Ambition Briefings- this messaging takes place at least weekly. 

• All students are taught about online safety through our Computing curriculum 

For Students 

• BBC Own It Designed specifically for children and teens, offering videos, quizzes, and articles covering online privacy, managing digital footprints, and handling peer pressure online.

• Thinkuknow for Students Interactive age-grouped resources (ages 4–7, 8–10, 11–13, and 14+) that help students learn how to spot online risks and get support when needed.

• Childline – Online and Mobile Safety Practical advice for young people on dealing with cyberbullying, privacy settings, and keeping personal data safe, plus 24/7 confidential support.

Reporting Concerns

• CEOP Safety Centre A direct reporting portal managed by UK law enforcement for reporting inappropriate contact, online grooming, or sexual exploitation.

How do we support families with online safety?

• We hold half-termly coffee mornings with families to share key updates and support with keeping their children safe online whilst they are at home 

• We communicate key links and reminders about key information via our monthly newsletter 

• We ask our families what they require additional support with linked to online safety/Chromebook use and how to support their children at home and respond accordingly to the needs of our community. 

Links for further support for Families

• Internet Matters Offers step-by-step guides for setting up parental controls on broadband, games consoles, smartphones, and entertainment apps. Features age-specific advice to help manage screen time and app safety.

• NSPCC Online Safety Hub Provides practical advice on managing social media use, online gaming, and cyberbullying, alongside guidance for starting open conversations about internet safety with your child.

• Thinkuknow (Parent Section)Run by the National Crime Agency’s CEOP command, this site offers advice on protecting children from online abuse and exploitative behaviour.

• UK Safer Internet Centre  Provides safety tips, device setup guides, and advice on handling issues like online hate and fake news.