Policy

Online Safety and Anti-Bullying Strategy

The Forerunners Education is committed to providing a safe online learning environment that promotes respect, kindness and the well-being of all students.

Introduction

Our approach

The Forerunners Education Homeschool is committed to providing a safe online learning environment that promotes respect, kindness, and the well-being of all students. This Online Safety and Anti-Bullying Strategy outlines our approach to preventing bullying, promoting positive online behaviour, and minimising the risks associated with internet use.

Online behaviour expectations

What we expect from students

Appropriate behaviour

Students are expected to:

Respect: treat others with kindness and respect, both in person and online.
Digital etiquette: follow agreed-upon guidelines for appropriate online behaviour, including respectful communication and consideration for others.
Inclusivity: embrace diversity and avoid any form of discrimination or prejudice in online interactions.
Responsible internet use: use online resources responsibly and adhere to ethical standards.

Inappropriate behaviour

Inappropriate online behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

Bullying: any form of bullying, including cyberbullying, will not be tolerated.
Harassment: unwanted or offensive online behaviour that causes distress to others.
Inappropriate content: accessing, sharing, or distributing inappropriate or harmful material.
Privacy violations: breaching the privacy of others, sharing personal information, or engaging in identity theft.

Prevention

Prevention of bullying

Education: provide ongoing education to students about the consequences of bullying and the importance of respectful behaviour online.
Open communication: encourage an open dialogue between students, parents, and teachers to report and address concerns promptly.
Anonymous reporting: establish a confidential reporting system to allow students to report incidents without fear of retaliation.

Consequences

Consequences for violating the strategy

01
Verbal warning
A verbal reminder about online behaviour expectations.
02
Written warning
A written communication to the student and parents outlining the concern and potential consequences.
03
Temporary online suspension
A temporary removal from online classes to allow for reflection and a discussion with parents.
04
Permanent online suspension
In severe cases, a permanent removal from online classes may be considered, with appropriate support mechanisms for the student.

Online content

Minimising risks of inappropriate material

Filtering systems: implement and regularly update filtering systems to restrict access to inappropriate material.
Education: provide guidance to students on identifying and avoiding inappropriate material online.
Parental controls: encourage parents to use and regularly update parental control tools on devices used by their children.

Support

Support and safeguarding

Student support: offer support and a safe space to students who may be victims of bullying or who require support in dealing with online challenges.
Educational programmes: integrate online safety education into the curriculum to empower students to make informed decisions.
Collaboration with parents: work closely with parents to address online safety concerns and ensure a consistent approach to supporting students.

Review

Review and monitoring

This strategy will be regularly reviewed to ensure its effectiveness in addressing emerging online safety challenges. Feedback from students, parents, and staff will be considered for continuous improvement.

The Forerunners Education Islamic Homeschool is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive online learning environment. This Online Safety and Anti-Bullying Strategy, in alignment with the Department for Education Policy and regulations, provides a framework for preventing bullying, promoting positive online behaviour, and supporting the well-being of all students.