Online Safety
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Staying Safe Online
In today’s digital world, staying safe online is essential for every student. At Christchurch Boys’ High School, we are committed to equipping our students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the online environment responsibly and safely.
Responsible Digital Citizenship
We teach students to be responsible digital citizens by fostering an understanding of:
- Personal Responsibility: Respecting others online, avoiding harmful behaviours, and recognising the consequences of their digital actions.
- Privacy Awareness: Knowing how to protect personal information and recognising the risks of sharing sensitive data.
- Critical Thinking: Identifying trustworthy sources, avoiding scams, and understanding the potential for misinformation.
School Guidelines for Online Behaviour
We have clear policies in place to ensure a safe and respectful digital learning environment, including:
- Using school devices and networks appropriately and following our acceptable use policy.
- Avoiding cyberbullying or any form of online harassment.
- Reporting inappropriate or harmful online content to a teacher or trusted adult.
Educating Students on Online Risks
Our programmes help students understand common online threats, such as:
- Phishing and Scams: Recognising and avoiding fraudulent emails, messages, or websites.
- Cyberbullying: Understanding the impact of online harassment and knowing how to seek help.
- Unwanted Contact: Recognising and managing interactions with strangers or inappropriate communications.
- Harmful Content: Learning to report or block content that is offensive, explicit, or unsafe.
Collaborating with Whānau
We encourage whānau to take an active role in guiding their sons’ online habits. Some practical tips include:
- Setting clear boundaries around screen time and device use.
- Encouraging open conversations about online experiences.
- Using parental controls and monitoring tools to manage younger students’ access to apps and websites.
Key Online Safety Resources
We partner with trusted organisations to ensure our students and their whānau have access to up-to-date online safety resources, including:
- Netsafe NZ: Guidance on online safety, reporting harmful content, and dealing with online challenges. Visit netsafe.org.nz.
- Staying Safe Online: A government resource offering tips and tools for cyber safety. Visit staysafeonline.org.nz.
- CERT NZ: Advice on recognising and dealing with cyber threats. Visit cert.govt.nz.
Seeking Help
If students or whānau encounter issues online, they can seek help by:
- Speaking with a teacher, counsellor, or pastoral care staff member.
- Reporting issues to Netsafe NZ at 0508 NETSAFE 0508 638 723.
- Contacting CERT NZ for technical cyber advice.
