Cybersafety @ Valkstone
Valkstone Primary School runs a comprehensive online safety program. The Cyber Safety Project is a two-year curriculum for our students led by the students’ classroom teachers.
In the first year the program focuses on Digital Safety.
For Our Youngest (Foundation to Year 2):
Your child will learn about online safety in a fun, age-appropriate way. We teach them to recognise their feelings when using the internet and what to do if they feel uncomfortable. They will learn the S.T.O.P. method to pause and seek help when needed. We will also discuss different types of people they might encounter online, helping them understand who is safe to interact with.
For Our Middle Years (Year 3 and 4):
In these sessions, we explore the online world your child uses to connect, learn and play. We help them understand the difference between personal, private and public online spaces. They will learn to think carefully about what information they share and who can see it. We also teach them how to create strong passwords to protect their accounts and personal information.
For Our Seniors (Year 5 and 6):
As your child becomes more independent online, we equip them with skills to manage their digital lives safely. They learn about the risks of oversharing and how to protect their privacy and personal data. We discuss online etiquette and responsible behaviour, helping them build positive and respectful online relationships. This session empowers students to be good digital citizens in an increasingly connected world.
In the second year the program focuses on Digital Wellbeing.
For Our Youngest (Foundation to Year 2):
In these sessions, we help your child learn healthy habits for using screens. We explore fun activities away from screens, like outdoor play and exercise, to keep their bodies and minds healthy. Your child will learn the S.T.A.R.T. method to balance screen time with other important activities, promoting overall wellbeing.
For Our Middle Years (Year 3 and 4):
We teach your child about finding a good balance with technology. They will learn why some apps and games are so engaging and learn how to use device settings to manage their screen time better. We also discuss the difference between friendly teasing and hurtful bullying online, and guide them on how to get help if they face tricky situations.
For Our Seniors (Year 5 and 6):
As your child becomes more socially active online, we address the challenges they might face. Through fun role-playing activities, they will learn how to stay safe online and protect their friends and family as well. We emphasize the importance of integrity when facing online dilemmas and peer pressure. Your child will also learn how to be kind and inclusive online, and what to do if they need help with online issues.