Synergy TV – Creative Learning Communities

‘Safe‘ – a new, national programme to help primary pupils learn the skills to enjoy social networking whilst staying safe online launches in October, 2010.

Created by social enterprise DigitalME, Safe brings together the UK’s leading safety organisations and education social network to create a unique programme designed for primary schools.

Radiowaves, the award winning social network for schools is providing a free online platform for schools to use; Childnet International is delivering its expert advice and resources on internet safety and ‘The i in Online’ is offering information and workshops on privacy and legal issues.

The programme has been developed with teachers for use in the classroom and provides step by step instructions, links to the curriculum, whole class and carousel activities. A simple self-assessment system allows teachers to reward pupils for completing the programme, with certificates and badges plus gaining accreditation for their school.

Lucinda Fell Childnet International Policy and Communications Manager says:

“Safe embraces the positive opportunities afforded by the internet, encouraging young people to ask Who? What? Where? When sharing on the web. This is important for primary pupils to consider, empowering them to think about how they share their content and preparing them for interacting on social networking sites.”

Safe is provided free to schools with optional, paid for training, certificates, badges and other resources being introduced to support the programme further.

The full programme will launch in October – Anyone interested in taking part or supporting Safe can register now at www.digitalme.co.uk/safe

Mark Riches, director of Radiowaves says:

“Social networking and sharing online provides many opportunities for young people to develop creative and communication skills in fun ways both in school and at home. However, technology is a tool and as with all tools we need to help children understand how they can be used and what the potential risks are. With children growing up in an increasingly digital world, our focus is on helping them to independently make informed and positive choices. We might not know what challenges they will face in the future but we can make sure every young person has the skills and support to be a safe and engaged digital citizen.”

Robert Bond of ‘The i in online’ adds

“We are delighted to support Safe. The need to educate children about responsible use of social media is as important as teaching them road safety.”

Kate Valentine, Buckinghamshire primary school teacher and Safe advisor comments:

“Safe provides the tools for teachers and parents to help children make better choices online. The Cycling Proficiency Test helps pupils use bikes safely and confidently on the roads, the Safe programme helps children learn positive habits and become confident digital citizens”

To find out more and to register please visit: www.digitalme.co.uk/safe

Supporting Partners
Safe is developed by DigitalMe with support from partners: Childnet International, The I in Online and Radiowaves.
DigitalME is a social enterprise that aims to use new technology to provide innovative learning opportunities for all young people with a particular focus on engaging those disconnected from mainstream provision and opportunities. www.digitalme.co.uk

Radiowaves Launched in 2003, Radiowaves is the leading safe, social networking site for young people, used in over 1,400 schools in the UK and internationally, with 25,000 young reporters uploading their profiles, blogs, media and comments to moderated media stations. We work with many companies, industry organisations and government departments on projects which give young people a voice in a safe environment. Our partners include The Football Foundation, the Imperial War Museum, Childnet International, The Arts Award, The Ministry of Justice, The British Council, Drinkaware and the SSAT.
www.radiowaves.co.uk

Childnet International is a registered charity set up in 1995 with the mission to work in partnership with others around the world to “help make the Internet a great and safe place for children.” The vision of the organisation is to ensure that all those involved in developing, producing, controlling, using and regulating international telecommunications (current and future), recognise and implement policies and programmes which prioritise the rights of children so that their interests are both promoted and protected.
www.childnet.com

‘The i in online’ aims to educate primary and secondary school children, as well as their parents and teachers about using and providing their personal information online and the potential pitfalls of not managing privacy settings effectively. Legal experts highlight the regulatory and legal aspects of this topic, whilst also demonstrating technical issues and illustrating mechanisms to help protect personal data whilst using the internet. www.speechlys.com/the_i_in_online