In response to young people congregating and engaging in anti-social behaviour Guernsey Police has created a new digital programme to help pupils in Year 6 better understand how to be safe online.
The aim of the Police’s new digital programme is to help young people develop their online presence safely.
The newly appointed Digital Safety Development Officer (DSDO) Laura Simpson has been guiding the children through the programme and has already started preparing some young people ahead of the summer holidays.
The Police said: “The lessons included discussion and dilemmas around a range of activities which local young people may wish to take part in over the summer, and ways children can have conversations with their families around having fun while keeping safe, both online and outside.
“Ms Simpson, a former primary school teacher and theatre practitioner, designed the lessons in response to the issue of young people congregating and engaging in anti-social behaviours.”
Sue Coughlin, Headteacher of Haute Capelle's Primary School and chair of the ISCP Online Safety Sub-committee said: "We are delighted with the appointment of a digital safety development officer. The role will enable direct input with students and provide support for families. The role provides work focusing on ensuring young people have the knowledge and support to develop as positive digital citizens."
Ms Simpson said: “Our year 6 children appear to have a good understanding of how to keep themselves safe. The engagement of the lessons has been terrific - I can't think of a child who didn't engage in a positive and constructive way.
“It's a tricky subject to tackle, as families have different rules and boundaries around what their children are allowed to do. As there are differing levels of adult supervision, but this only adds to the discussion, and furthers the child’s learning."
The work Ms Simpson Simpson has done helps the Police to take on and initiate preventative work around a complicated and concerning digital world. This will work will be undertaken both in schools and the wider community.
Ms Simpson is assisted throughout her work with a comprehensive team, consisting of; Schools’ Liaison Officer PC Nick Boughay, colleagues in Education as well as the Island Safeguarding Children Partnership (ISCP).
Ms Simpson has provided training, support and advice to more than 1200 people, including school children, education workers, social workers and safeguarding professionals.
Deputy Chief Officer Phil Breban said: “Issues around digital safety, particularly among young people, are increasingly coming to police attention. In an enforcement sense, we look at how to ensure our laws are up to date to keep us safe.
“Within this area the engagement and education sectors are vital. We are pleased to appoint Laura who assists Law Enforcement in having a presence in schools regarding digital matters. We hope to see young people properly educated on how to be safe online, how to behave online, and how to interact with others online.”
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