We are very aware of the possible dangers posed by Social Media and we recommend that parents are aware of the Net Aware website that explains the risks of a number of social media websites. There is a link to Net Aware on the WSCB website

http://www.wigan.gov.uk/WSCB/Parents-and-Carers/Internet-safety.aspx

or you can find it at

https://www.net-aware.org.uk/ 

The Internet has become part of our everyday lives and is now easier to access then ever before. At St. Michael's, we appreciate the importance of the internet as a learning tool for children today. It provides them with the opportunities to access a wide range of educational tools, communicate with friends and investigate the world around them. However, there is also content available that is not suitable for children. We hope that the information provided on this page will help to keep your children safe and ensure they use technology, including mobile phones responsibly.

Young people are more at risk of exposure to inappropriate or criminal behaviour if they are unaware of the dangers. These dangers include:

• viewing unsuitable content e.g. hate material, adult content, sites that endorse unhealthy behaviour
• giving out personal information
• arranging to meet an online 'friend'
• becoming involved in, or the victim of, bullying, identity theft, or making and sending indecent or illegal images
• spending too much time online (internet addiction), which can effect concentration, sleep and health
• copying information from the Internet or buying work from other people to use as their own

Please also see our E-Safety Policy on our policy page.