The internet is an incredible resource for children to access, support for their homework, chatting to friends etc., but it can also be a very dangerous place for them. They can be exposed to inappropriate material, harassment and bullying, viruses and hackers and be conned into giving away financial information. They can also be vulnerable to on- line grooming by pedophiles.

At the Holden park schools the younger children are able to use the computer with age appropriate games and learning tools with adult supervision.

However, we have introduced a range of procedures to ensure their safety.

• There is a filter on all computers that block out most inappropriate material
• Children are not allowed to go into chat rooms and staff will talk to the children about what sites they are using.
• The history on the computer is checked on a regular basis.
• Any email sent by the children are monitored to ensure that they are not being bullied or sending anything inappropriate

If you would rather your child was not allowed access to the internet then please let a member of Holden park schools staff know.  Staff are also aware of the need to limit the time children spend on computers and will develop strategies to ensure that they spend a balance of time engaged in ICT and other activities.