Adventure Camps recognises that the internet is a valuable resource for both staff and children for research, homework, communication and entertainment. However, it must be used responsibly to ensure children are protected from exposure to harmful or inappropriate material, in line with the EYFS Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements and the Prevent Duty.
Parental Permission #
Children will only be permitted to access the internet at Adventure Camps where written parental or carer consent has been obtained.
Guidelines for Children – SMART Rules #
A printed copy of the SMART online safety guidelines is displayed next to all computers. These rules are explained to any child wishing to access the internet:
- Safe – Keep personal information private (name, email, phone number, address, school name). Do not share this with people you do not trust online.
- Meeting – Never agree to meet someone you have only met online unless your parent or carer is with you.
- Accepting – Do not open emails, messages, files or images from people you do not know. They may contain viruses or harmful content.
- Reliable – Not all information online is accurate, and people online may not be truthful.
- Tell – Tell a member of staff or your parents immediately if something online makes you feel uncomfortable.
Safeguards in Place to Protect Children #
Adventure Camps has implemented the following safeguards to ensure children remain safe while accessing the internet:
- A specific risk assessment has been undertaken for internet use.
- Parental controls are activated on all devices accessible to children.
- Google SafeSearch filtering is enabled.
- YouTube Restricted Mode is enabled.
- Additional filtering or monitoring software is implemented where applicable.
- Computers are positioned so that screens are clearly visible to staff.
- Staff actively supervise children when using the internet.
- All devices have up-to-date antivirus software and firewall protection installed.
- Browser histories are regularly checked to monitor sites accessed. Staff and children are informed of this monitoring.
Responding to Online Incidents #
If a child encounters harmful material, receives inappropriate messages, or experiences online bullying while using Adventure Camps devices, the following steps will be taken:
- The Manager will be informed immediately.
- The incident will be recorded on an Incident Record and placed in the child’s file.
- The child’s parent or carer will be informed and asked to sign the Incident Record.
- The Manager will investigate the incident and implement measures to prevent reoccurrence.
If staff become aware that a child is deliberately attempting to access sexual, extremist, or otherwise inappropriate material, or has been shown such material by a third party, a Logging a Concern form will be completed and the matter will be referred to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in line with the Safeguarding Policy.
Related Policies #
This policy should be read alongside:
- Safeguarding Policy
- Social Media Policy
- Mobile Phones, Tablets and Wearable Technology Policy
Policy Review Details #
This policy was adopted by: Adventure Camps
Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2025): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements – Safeguarding [3.4 – 3.6].
