We take online safety seriously. While we work hard to keep students safe in school, we know that many parents and carers worry about how to protect their children at home. This page is designed to give you clear, practical advice, helpful guides and trusted resources to support you in keeping your child safe online. 

Why Online Safety Matters 

Children and young people spend more time online than ever before, whether it’s for homework, gaming, social media or streaming. While the internet offers fantastic opportunities, it also comes with risks such as: 

• Exposure to inappropriate content 

• Online bullying or harassment 

• Contact with strangers or unsafe communities 

• Sharing personal information without realising the consequences 

By working together, we can help children enjoy the benefits of the online world while staying safe. 

Tips for Parents & Carers 

1. Talk Openly About Online Use 

Encourage your child to share what they do online. Ask about the apps, games, and websites they use. Show interest without judgment — this builds trust and makes it more likely they’ll come to you if something goes wrong. 

2. Set Clear Boundaries 

• Agree on screen time limits. 

• Keep devices out of bedrooms at night. 

• Encourage regular breaks from screens. 

3. Use Parental Controls 

Most devices, apps, and broadband providers offer parental control settings. These can help you: 

• Block inappropriate content 

• Limit in‑app purchases 

• Monitor usage times 

4. Stay Informed 

Technology changes quickly. Make it a habit to learn about new apps or games your child is using. A quick search online can help you understand risks and benefits. 

5. Encourage Safe Sharing 

Remind children never to share personal details such as their full name, address, school, or phone number online. 

Helpful Guides & Resources 

• ThinkUKnow – Advice from the National Crime Agency about staying safe online.https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/  

• NSPCC Online Safety – Practical tips for parents and carers.https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/  

• Childnet – Resources to help families navigate the online world. https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/  

• UK Safer Internet Centre – Guides, tips, and reporting tools. https://saferinternet.org.uk/  

Practical Tricks You Can Try Today 

• Check privacy settings on social media accounts — make sure profiles are set to private. 

• Play games together — this helps you understand what your child is experiencing. 

• Create a family agreement — write down rules about online use and stick to them. 

• Model good behaviour — show your child how you use technology responsibly. 

Need Help? 

If you’re worried about your child’s online activity, please don’t hesitate to contact UTC Plymouth for advice and support. We’re here to help: worrybox@utcplymouth.org or safeguardingteam@utcplymouth.org