The internet is now a part of everyday life and children are spending more and more time online, exploring cyberspace and connecting with others online. However the internet can also represent a risk to children that is sometimes misunderstood and often underestimated. E-Safety is a key element in the safeguarding strategy at Chigwell Row Infant School and keeping children safe online is a priority for all staff and volunteers.

Just like the offline world, the online world is full of risk and although the majority of these will not turn into harm it is important that children understand the risks they are taking and make sensible choices. At Chigwell Row Infant School, children are taught the fundamentals of e-safety throughout the school so that they can recognise and avoid dangers and unsuitable content. We also explain how to behave appropriately online as well as the importance of managing their digital footprint. We teach E-Safety beginning in reception through our Jigsaw curriculum, 'Education for a Connected World', Safer Internet Day, and various projects. However we can only be successful in keeping children safe online if parents and carers to ensure a consistent approach on e-safety at home as well as at school.

Below are some links to various websites which contain important information for parents:

ParentZone is an online site devoted to providing expert information to families and schools. They check and provide a range of issues with the aim of improving outcomes for children in a digital world.

Childline provides free advice and information to those aged 18 years and below, including advice on 'online and mobile safety'.  

The "Thinkuknow" website is brought to you by The Child Exploitation and Online protection (CEOP) centre. It is a guide to online safety for young people. It offers  e-safety advice and resources for children and parents.

Ask About Games provides details on PEGI ratings, parental controls and advice on video games. It aims to answer questions parents and players may have about video game ratings and provide advice on how to game responsibily and get the most of them for their family. 

Internet Matters is a new online portal designed for parents to access simple, easy and practical advice about online safety for their children, right through from pre-school to teens. It provides tips on protecting children from online grooming, cyberbullying, privacy and identity theft and inappropriate content. Internet matters is a not-for profit organisation set up by BT, Sky, TalkTalk and Virgin Media.

CEOP (The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre) delivers a multi-agency service dedicated to tackling the abuse and exploitation of children in the real and online world. It is often referred to as the online 999. By clicking on the button, young children and parents can get advice on a range of issues such as viruses, hacking and dealing with bullying online.