Building Digital Confidence for Children — and for Parents
At Hubert Ogunde Memorial School, Safer Internet Day is more than a date in the calendar.
It is a reminder of something we practise every day: helping children learn how to use technology safely, responsibly, and confidently — with the full support of their families.
In today’s world, children are growing up surrounded by digital tools. Avoiding technology entirely is neither realistic nor helpful. Instead, our role as a school is to guide them, protect them, and teach them how to make wise choices.
Because true online safety comes from understanding, not fear.
A clear and balanced approach
To protect learning time and minimise distractions, mobile phones are not used during the school day. Devices are securely locked away, and the school operates a dedicated communication line for parents.
This ensures that classrooms remain focused, calm, and safe.
At the same time, we recognise that children must also learn how to use technology positively and responsibly.
That is why every Friday, our Year 5 and Year 6 pupils take part in supervised Tech Time.
Pupils bring a device from home — or borrow one from a parent or guardian — and work through structured activities that develop:
- digital literacy
- safe online behaviour
- research and problem-solving skills
- creativity and collaboration
- responsible use of the internet
This is guided learning, not free browsing. Teachers support pupils step by step so that they build healthy digital habits in a safe environment.
Supporting parents as partners
We know that online safety does not end at the school gate.
Children benefit most when home and school work together.
However, many parents tell us they feel unsure about the digital world — which apps are safe, how to set boundaries, or how to talk to their children about online risks.
That feeling is completely understandable.
So, through our Parent Teacher Association, we offer digital inclusion sessions for parents and carers, designed to build confidence and practical knowledge. These sessions create space to ask questions, share experiences, and learn simple strategies to keep children safe at home.
When parents feel informed and confident, children feel supported.
That partnership is at the heart of everything we do.
A shared commitment to online safety
Our commitment to digital safety is long-standing. In 2020, during Internet Safety Day, our school community proudly received a Guinness World Record certificate recognising our collective participation in online safety awareness.
It was a special moment that reflected the strength of our whole community — pupils, parents, and staff working together.
Growing responsible digital citizens
At Hubert Ogunde Memorial School, our goal is not simply to limit technology.
Our goal is to prepare children to use it wisely.
We want our pupils to become:
- thoughtful users
- respectful communicators
- critical thinkers
- and responsible digital citizens
By combining clear boundaries, structured learning, and strong family partnerships, we believe we are giving our children the best possible foundation for life in a connected world.
This Safer Internet Day, we thank our parents and PTA for continuing to work alongside us.
Together, we are not just keeping children safe — we are helping them thrive.
- 10 Feb 2026