Internet and Technology Policy

 

In our setting, we understand the importance of responsible internet and technology usage and the potential risks it poses. We aim to create a safe and enriching environment for children to explore technology while maintaining their well-being and safeguarding their online experiences. To ensure the safety of the children in our care and establish proper procedures, we have implemented this policy:

 

Internet Usage:

• The internet is only used for specific purposes, including accessing our online learning platform Tapestry, training, and teaching.

• Children may access the internet under the supervision of a staff member for educational activities, such as researching information or viewing related images that enhance their learning.

• Staff and managers are strictly prohibited from engaging in any personal Internet activities, such as social networking or accessing personal accounts while on site.

• It is strictly forbidden to upload any photos, videos, or work-related information of children to external websites or social media platforms, as this violates our confidentiality policy.

• If any concerns regarding internet use arise, our safeguarding procedure must be followed.

 

Internet Security:

• All staff members and visitors are required to hand in their mobile phones and any unauthorised devices to the office at the start of the day. These devices will be securely stored throughout the day and returned to the owners at the end of the day.

• Only approved devices are permitted to access the network and be used by staff and children within our setting.

• These approved devices are equipped with appropriate security settings and software, ensuring that access is restricted to specific sites and applications deemed safe and appropriate.

• We have robust security systems to restrict access to inappropriate websites or content on our Wi-Fi network. These systems employ filtering and blocking mechanisms to prevent children and staff from accessing unsuitable material.

• Our internet security measures are regularly updated to stay abreast of evolving online threats and to maintain a safe online environment for children.

• We educate staff members on the importance of internet safety and provide training on identifying and addressing potential online risks.

 

Technology Usage:

• We strive to provide age-appropriate opportunities for children to explore everyday technology within our setting.

• We believe that computer and mobile technologies can offer educational benefits, and we support their limited usage in our setting.

• We are mindful of screen time and limit the duration of exposure to electronic devices. We believe in a balanced approach that promotes a variety of learning experiences.

• Children may have access to internet-enabled computers or preschool tablets, provided under appropriate supervision.

• Whenever children are using a computer, a staff member will always be present to supervise and assist them.

• Each of our settings is equipped with a dedicated phone, and its number is provided to parents/carers and relevant individuals for communication purposes. This phone is kept secure. Our phones have an answering machine to facilitate effective communication and address any urgent concerns. By having dedicated phones in our settings, we prioritise the safety and accessibility of communication channels, ensuring that parents/carers and staff can reach us whenever needed.

• In accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which states: "Providers should take essential records and equipment on outings, for example... a mobile phone," we ensure that our manager's mobile phone is taken on outings. This commitment ensures that we adhere to the guidelines set forth by the EYFS, prioritising the safety and well-being of the children in our care.

• In certain exceptional circumstances, it may be necessary to have additional means of communication readily available. These circumstances may include when staff care for disabled children, young people who require immediate access to a phone in case of a crisis or emergency, or when a small group of children is taken to another area of the site. In such cases, if our setting cannot provide an alternative solution, the registered provider will agree to procedures on using personal mobile phones for this purpose.

 

Parental/Carer Permission:

• We respect parents' preferences and offer the option for them to opt out of their child having access to specific technology devices. We understand that individual families may have different perspectives and concerns regarding technology usage.

• If you decide to change your permission preferences at any point, please notify us, and we will promptly update our records accordingly.

 

CREATED: AUGUST 2023   NEXT REVIEW: AUGUST 2024