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Safe use of the internet & technology 

1. Introduction

Turning Point Leeds (TPL) recognises the integral role of the internet and digital technology in education and everyday life. While technology provides excellent opportunities for learning, communication, and creativity, it also brings potential risks.

This policy establishes guidelines to ensure the safe, responsible, and ethical use of the internet and technology by staff, pupils, and stakeholders. It works alongside the eSafety Policy, Data Protection Policy, and Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) and forms part of our wider safeguarding framework in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE 2024), the Equality Act 2010, and GDPR.

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2. Objectives

  • Safety: Protect pupils and staff from risks such as inappropriate content, cyberbullying, grooming, exploitation, or online radicalisation.

  • Security: Safeguard TPL’s networks, systems, and data against unauthorised access, malware, or breaches.

  • Education: Equip pupils, staff, and parents/carers with the skills to use digital technologies responsibly, developing resilience and digital citizenship.

  • Restorative practice: Address misuse of technology through reflection, accountability, and education, repairing harm where appropriate.

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3. Acceptable Use Guidelines

Staff

  • Use school technology primarily for educational and professional purposes.

  • Protect sensitive data in line with GDPR and TPL’s Data Protection Policy.

  • Model respectful, responsible digital behaviour, including observing copyright and privacy rights.

Pupils

  • Use technology resources only for educational purposes as directed by staff.

  • Hand in personal devices each morning for secure storage; they may not be used during the school day.

  • Report any inappropriate content, contact, or online behaviour to a member of staff immediately.

  • Engage respectfully with peers, teachers, and the wider online community.

Parents/Carers

  • Reinforce safe and responsible technology use at home.

  • Support pupils in developing healthy digital habits.

  • Communicate any concerns about their child’s online use to TPL staff.

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4. Internet Access

  • All internet access at TPL is filtered and monitored to block harmful or inappropriate content.

  • Pupil internet use is supervised during school hours to ensure compliance with this policy.

  • Systems and filtering are reviewed regularly to remain effective and up to date.

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5. Education and Training

  • Curriculum: eSafety and digital citizenship are integrated into sessions, vocational learning, and wider enrichment activities.

  • Staff training: All staff receive annual training on safe technology use, online safeguarding risks, and reporting pathways.

  • Parent engagement: Parents/carers are encouraged to attend workshops or access resources on online safety and responsible internet use.

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6. Data Protection and Privacy

  • All personal information must be handled securely, in line with GDPR and TPL’s Data Protection Policy.

  • Staff and pupils must not share personal details online without permission.

  • Secure data handling procedures apply to storing, sharing, and transmitting all sensitive information.

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7. Incident Reporting and Response

  • All suspected breaches, misuse of technology, or online safety concerns must be reported to the DSL immediately.

  • TPL will log all incidents, inform host schools, and investigate thoroughly, ensuring confidentiality.

  • Responses will prioritise restorative conversations and education but may include disciplinary action or police involvement where necessary.

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8. Compliance and Monitoring

  • All staff, pupils, and visitors must comply with this policy and related safeguarding frameworks.

  • Technology use will be monitored to ensure safety, security, and compliance.

  • Trends and incidents will be reviewed regularly to inform improvements.

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9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or earlier if required due to legislative updates, technological developments, or safeguarding concerns.

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Conclusion

TPL is committed to creating a safe, secure, and positive digital environment. By promoting responsible use of technology, working restoratively with pupils, and engaging staff and parents/carers, we ensure that the benefits of technology can be enjoyed while risks are minimised.

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Written: August 2025
Next Review: August 2026

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