E-Safety

Helping our students stay safe, responsible and confident in a digital world

Technology plays an increasingly important role in our students’ education, communication and everyday lives. At Baysgarth School, we recognise the opportunities that the digital world provides, alongside the importance of helping young people navigate it safely, responsibly and confidently.

Online safety is an essential part of our students’ education and wellbeing. Through our Computing and Media Literacy curriculum, including specific units in Years 7 and 8, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to manage their online activities and interactions safely. In Year 7, students learn how generative AI and deepfakes work, the law around sharing images, and how to recognise grooming. In Year 8, they explore misinformation and AI ethics, and learn exactly how to report concerns using CEOP, Childline and the Internet Watch Foundation.

Online safety is also embedded throughout our ICE programme, supported by assemblies and by our pastoral teams where specific interventions or support are required. In school, our network is filtered and monitored to help keep students safe online.

We encourage all students to speak to a trusted member of staff if they experience anything online that makes them feel uncomfortable, worried or unsafe.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Online Safety

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the way young people learn, communicate and interact with technology. AI tools, including ChatGPT, AI-powered search engines, image generators and chatbots, offer exciting opportunities but also introduce new risks.

At Baysgarth, we want students to understand how to use AI critically, ethically and safely.

How we use AI safely in school
Under our AI policy, every AI tool is checked before it can be used in school, and students only use tools we have approved for student use. Baysgarth Quest, our own homework platform, includes Sparky, an AI tutor designed to guide students rather than give them the answer, with safety checks built in. You can find out more on our AI Innovation page

Key AI risks parents should be aware of:

• Misinformation: AI can generate convincing but inaccurate information. Students should question AI-generated answers and check information using reliable sources.
• Deepfakes: AI can create realistic fake images, videos and audio recordings. These can be used to mislead, embarrass, bully or impersonate others. Creating or sharing a sexual image of anyone under 18 is illegal, even if it was made with AI, and using AI to create fake images of others or to impersonate them is treated as serious misuse under our AI policy.
• Privacy: Students should never share personal information, passwords, photographs or sensitive details with public AI tools and chatbots.
• AI chatbots and companions: Some AI tools simulate friendships or relationships. Young people should understand that these are not real people and should not replace trusted human relationships.
• Inappropriate content: AI platforms may generate material that is unsuitable for children or young people.
• Academic integrity: AI can support learning, but students must understand the importance of developing their own knowledge, thinking independently and producing their own work. For GCSE coursework, exam board rules on AI apply, and students must confirm that their work is their own.

We encourage parents to discuss AI openly with their children, explore the tools they are using and reinforce the importance of responsible digital behaviour.

What Should I Do if My Child Experiences an Online Safety Issue?

If your child encounters cyberbullying, inappropriate content, unwanted contact, online exploitation or anything that causes them concern:

• Stay calm, listen carefully and reassure them that speaking up was the right thing to do.
• Avoid blaming them or immediately removing their access to technology, as this may discourage them from reporting future concerns.
• Where safe and appropriate, keep evidence such as messages, usernames, screenshots and relevant dates. Do not save, screenshot or forward sexual images of anyone under 18.
• Use the reporting and blocking features on the platform.
• If a nude or sexual image of your child has been shared online, they can use Childline’s Report Remove tool to get it taken down.
• Contact the school’s pastoral or safeguarding team if the issue involves another student or is affecting your child’s wellbeing. You can email our safeguarding team at katie.smith@baysgarthschool.co.uk.
• Report suspected online grooming or sexual exploitation to CEOP.
• If your child is in immediate danger, contact the police on 999.

At Baysgarth, online safety is a shared responsibility. We encourage parents and carers to contact us whenever they have concerns about their child’s online experiences. You can read our full policy on our Policy Page. 

Useful Websites and Resources for Parents

The following organisations provide reliable, practical and regularly updated advice to help families navigate online safety.

Advice on online relationships, grooming, exploitation and how to protect children online. Includes guidance on reporting concerns.

Practical guides covering parental controls, social media, gaming, screen time and emerging technologies, including AI.

Guidance on keeping children safe online, recognising risks and supporting children who experience harm.

Resources for parents, online safety guides and information about Safer Internet Day.

Conversation starters and practical resources to help families discuss online safety.

Independent information about apps, games, digital wellbeing and AI tools, including age-related guidance.

Helps young people under 18 report nude or sexual images of themselves that have been shared online, or that they fear may be shared.

Further Reading: Understanding AI

For parents who would like to develop their understanding of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on young people, we recommend:

• Internet Matters – Guidance on generative AI, AI chatbots and emerging online risks.
• Childnet – Educational resources exploring AI, digital literacy and online safety.
• Common Sense Media – Reviews and guidance to help parents understand AI-powered platforms and tools.