Westbourne House takes internet safety seriously, empowering students with digital literacy and critical thinking skills. This term, in which Safer Internet Day falls, pupils have been learning ways to keep themselves safer and happier online in their Digital Skills lessons led by Mr Forsyth. They have looked at questions such as...
- how do you spot someone who is phishing?
- how can you have friends online but stay safe?
- how you know when your media choices are out of balance? What can you do to change the situation?
Our Learning4Life programme also fosters open conversations and critical thinking around the online world. Recently, Years 7 & 8 explored creating their own personal filters to curate their online experience, including movies, music, media, and social media.
Anything which makes unsuitable material harder to access, such as filters, has got to be put in place. However, it does not solve problems. Head of Learning4Life, Mr Pitman, emphasizes the importance of fostering a moral compass and critical thinking skills:
"The best way of ensuring that our children are reacting well to what they experience is to develop their moral compass and equip them with ways of seeking guidance so that they can filter out the 'bad stuff' for themselves. It's a difficult challenge for schools, parents and children alike."
Westbourne House provides a supportive environment for open communication. Pupils can approach Mr Pitman directly with any concerns during his dedicated "media drop-in" sessions.
"The three-way relationship between school, parent, and child is essential, with an aim to encourage the children to be open and honest."
Mr Pitman emphasises the critical role of collaboration
Read some tips about on online safety or speak to school if you have any concerns.
