Technology and Safeguarding Guidelines

Although we are well aware of the enormous contribution that the internet can make to the education of our young people and intent to embrace it, we are equally cognisant of the inherent danger, if its use is not carefully controlled. Whilst internet use in school is strictly supervised at all times, the onus is on parents to safeguard their children in a similar fashion at home.

• Pupils may not own smartphones or similar (including iPads, iPods, and any devices with similar capabilities), or make regular use of parents’ smartphones. When in need of a phone when going out the house, a non-internet device only should be used. Girls should be aware how others in the community see them and not be seen in public holding a smartphone. We will take a zero-tolerance approach to smartphones.

• Me’or students must not have any access to Whatsapp, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Tiktok etc. Access to the internet, and sites such as Netflix, YouTube, iPlayer etc. should be filtered and monitored.

• Please exercise extra vigilance regarding the sharing of inappropriate material via online regular platforms such as Google Drive, etc.

• Whilst internet use in school is strictly supervised at all times, the onus is on parents to safeguard their children in a similar fashion at home. Pupils may only use the internet under parental supervision, with sufficient filters. As everyone has different standards in regards to this, school strongly recommends girls not to use the internet at all or watch films when getting together to socialise.

• We strongly advise girls not to go to socialise in the local parks on Shabbos unless they are taking their younger siblings to the play area or are part of a family group. As with all safeguarding matters, we choose to take a more vigilant approach.

• We recognise that challenges with technology may arise, and close partnership between parents and the school is essential. Parents should communicate openly with us and to reach out for support when needed.