Holy Trinity

Online Safety at Holy Trinity CE Primary School

At Holy Trinity CE Primary School, we recognise the importance of Technology in the 21st century as an essential resource for supporting teaching and learning, and as a vital part of the everyday lives of children, young people, and adults. As a school, we are committed to equipping our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking they need to stay safe online and make the most of digital opportunities throughout their lives.

The Role of Technology in Education and Daily Life

Computing encompasses a wide range of digital technologies, including web-based platforms and mobile applications, which continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Children today interact with numerous online tools both in and out of school, such as:

• Websites and Apps
• Email, Instant Messaging, and Chat Rooms
• Social Media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
• Smartphones and Tablets
• Gaming Devices and Online Games
• Learning Platforms and Virtual Learning Environments
• Blogs, Wikis, and Podcasts
• Video Sharing (e.g., YouTube)
• Downloading and Streaming Services
• Smart TVs and On-demand Content

While these technologies offer exciting learning and communication opportunities, they can also present risks, particularly when not properly supervised or regulated. It is important for users—especially children—to understand the risks, follow age-appropriate usage guidelines (often 13+), and adopt safe and responsible behaviours online.

Our Commitment to Online Safety

Holy Trinity is committed to creating a safe digital environment. We actively teach pupils how to navigate the internet safely, legally, and respectfully. Online safety is embedded across the curriculum and reinforced through focused activities and assemblies.

Using Project Evolve

As part of our online safety strategy, we use Project Evolve—a nationally recognised framework aligned with the UK Council for Internet Safety’s Education for a Connected World framework. Project Evolve helps us tailor age-appropriate lessons that cover key topics including:

• Self-Image and Identity
• Online Relationships
• Online Reputation
• Online Bullying
• Managing Online Information
• Health, Wellbeing, and Lifestyle
• Privacy and Security
• Copyright and Ownership

Project Evolve provides engaging, regularly updated content to ensure that pupils are equipped with the skills and understanding to be safe and discerning digital citizens. 

See also Holy Trinity - Online Safety

Protecting Data and Privacy

We understand our responsibility to protect sensitive information about learners, staff, and families. In accordance with data protection legislation, we ensure that all staff are aware of how to handle data securely and minimise risks of loss or misuse. A data breach can seriously affect both individuals and the school’s reputation.

We ensure that:

• All devices and networks used in school are secured
• Staff and pupils follow clear Acceptable Use Agreements
• All sensitive data is handled in accordance with current UK GDPR requirements
• Staff receive regular training in data protection and online safety
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Acceptable Use and Responsibilities

Our Acceptable Use Agreements apply to all staff, governors, pupils, and regular visitors. These policies cover:

• School-owned equipment (PCs, laptops, tablets, webcams, digital devices)
• Personally-owned devices brought into school (phones, USB drives, tablets)

All users have a shared responsibility to use digital resources respectfully, safely, and lawfully.

Monitoring

Authorised members of the school may inspect or monitor any school-owned device or system at any time to ensure compliance with school policies. All such activities are carried out in accordance with:

• The Data Protection Act (2018)
• The Human Rights Act (1998)
• The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000)
• The Lawful Business Practice Regulations (2000)

Please note that personal use of school technology may still be monitored as part of routine checks.

Policy Breaches

Breaches or suspected breaches of the school’s Computing and online safety policies may lead to:

• Suspension or withdrawal of access to digital equipment or platforms
• Disciplinary action in line with our Behaviour or Staff Disciplinary Procedures
• In serious cases, referral to external authorities or legal proceedings

The Information Commissioner’s Office has the authority to investigate and penalise serious data breaches, with fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of annual global turnover under UK GDPR.

Incident Reporting

All breaches, security threats, lost devices, suspicious emails, or unauthorised access must be reported immediately to the Head Teacher or, in their absence, the Deputy Head Teacher. We maintain an e-Safety Incident Log to track and respond to any issues promptly and appropriately.