EAL Hub | Primary

Connecting communities, empowering families.

EAL Hub​

Connecting communities, empowering families.

🛬 Support for Newly Arrived Families: A Guide for EAL Parents (Primary School) 

Starting school in a new country can feel exciting but also challenging. UK primary schools provide support for newly arrived families to help children settle in and feel comfortable in their new environment. This guide explains what to expect and how to help your child adjust. 

When your child joins a primary school in the UK, there are a few important steps to take: 

  1. Attend the school welcome meeting – Schools often invite new families to an induction session where they explain school routines, expectations, and support available. 
  1. Meet the EAL Coordinator – The school will check your child’s English level and explain how they can support their language development. 
  1. Get the correct school uniform – Make sure your child has the right uniform, PE kit, and school bag. Some schools have second-hand uniform options to help families. 
  1. Understand school timings and daily routines – Learn when school starts, finishes, and how break and lunchtime work. 
  1. Set up communication with the school – Ensure the school has your correct phone number and email so you don’t miss important messages. 

💡Hint: If you need help with school forms, emails, or policies, ask the school office for assistance or translation support. 

Primary schools have different ways to support newly arrived children and EAL students to help them feel welcome and confident. 

EAL Support in Primary School 

English language assessments – The school will check your child’s understanding of English. 
Extra English support – Some schools offer small-group lessons or one-on-one help for EAL students. 
Bilingual dictionaries & visual aids – Teachers may use pictures, word lists, or translation tools to help children understand lessons. 

Helping Children Settle In 

Buddy system – Your child may be paired with another student to help them get used to school. 
Warm and inclusive classrooms – Teachers encourage all children to be friendly and welcoming. 
Simple routines – Younger children learn best through structure and repetition, which helps them feel safe. 

💡Hint: Encourage your child to speak and play with other children, even if their English is not perfect – making friends will help them learn faster! 

  1. Language Barrier
  • 🗣 Learning English takes time – encourage your child to practise speaking and listening daily. 
  • 📚 Read simple English books together, even if you also read in your home language. 
  • 🏫 Ask the school if they have EAL-friendly resources for home learning. 
  1. Understanding School Rules & Expectations
  • 🏫 Schools have rules on uniform, attendance, behaviour, and mobile phone use (phones are usually not allowed in primary school). 
  • 📅 Ensure your child arrives on time every day – missing lessons makes learning harder. 
  1. Making Friends
  • 🤝 Encourage your child to join playgroups, lunchtime clubs, or after-school activities. 
  • 🌍 Many UK schools are diverse – reassure your child that they are not alone in learning English. 
  1. Homework & Reading
  • 📖 Schools expect parents to support their child with reading and basic homework. 
  • 📕 If English is difficult, you can still read together in your home language – strong first language skills help with learning English. 

💡Hint: If your child is struggling, speak to their teacher or EAL Coordinator – they are there to help! 

How Can I Stay Involved in My Child’s Education? 

Attend Parents’ Evenings to meet teachers and discuss progress. 
Read school newsletters and emails for important updates. 
Ask the school for translated materials or interpreter support if needed. 
Speak to the teacher or EAL Coordinator if you have concerns about your child’s learning. 

Who Can I Speak to If I Need Help? 

  1. Class Teacher – First contact for any concerns about your child’s progress. 

  2. EAL Coordinator – Helps children learning English as an additional language. 

  3. Headteacher or Deputy Head – Manages the school and supports parents. 

  4. School Office – Can help with forms, payments, and general enquiries. 

  5. Community Support Groups – Some areas have parent networks or cultural groups for newly arrived families. 

💡Hint: Schools in the UK encourage parent involvement, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek support. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Newly Arrived Families 

  1. Attend the school induction and check uniform requirements before your child starts.
  2. EAL support is available – Schools offer language assessments, extra lessons, and classroom support.
  3. Encourage your child to practise English, join activities, and make friends to help them settle in.
  4. Stay involved by attending Parents’ Evenings, checking school emails, and talking to teachers.
  5. Ask for help if needed – Schools and community services are there to support your family. 

Starting at a new school can take time, but your child is not alone – teachers and staff are here to help every step of the way! 😊 

Table of Contents

🛬 Support for Newly Arrived Families: A Guide for EAL Parents (Primary School) 

Starting school in a new country can feel exciting but also challenging. UK primary schools provide support for newly arrived families to help children settle in and feel comfortable in their new environment. This guide explains what to expect and how to help your child adjust. 

When your child joins a primary school in the UK, there are a few important steps to take: 

  1. Attend the school welcome meeting – Schools often invite new families to an induction session where they explain school routines, expectations, and support available. 
  1. Meet the EAL Coordinator – The school will check your child’s English level and explain how they can support their language development. 
  1. Get the correct school uniform – Make sure your child has the right uniform, PE kit, and school bag. Some schools have second-hand uniform options to help families. 
  1. Understand school timings and daily routines – Learn when school starts, finishes, and how break and lunchtime work. 
  1. Set up communication with the school – Ensure the school has your correct phone number and email so you don’t miss important messages. 

💡Hint: If you need help with school forms, emails, or policies, ask the school office for assistance or translation support. 

Primary schools have different ways to support newly arrived children and EAL students to help them feel welcome and confident. 

EAL Support in Primary School 

English language assessments – The school will check your child’s understanding of English. 
Extra English support – Some schools offer small-group lessons or one-on-one help for EAL students. 
Bilingual dictionaries & visual aids – Teachers may use pictures, word lists, or translation tools to help children understand lessons. 

Helping Children Settle In 

Buddy system – Your child may be paired with another student to help them get used to school. 
Warm and inclusive classrooms – Teachers encourage all children to be friendly and welcoming. 
Simple routines – Younger children learn best through structure and repetition, which helps them feel safe. 

💡Hint: Encourage your child to speak and play with other children, even if their English is not perfect – making friends will help them learn faster! 

  1. Language Barrier
  • 🗣 Learning English takes time – encourage your child to practise speaking and listening daily. 
  • 📚 Read simple English books together, even if you also read in your home language. 
  • 🏫 Ask the school if they have EAL-friendly resources for home learning. 
  1. Understanding School Rules & Expectations
  • 🏫 Schools have rules on uniform, attendance, behaviour, and mobile phone use (phones are usually not allowed in primary school). 
  • 📅 Ensure your child arrives on time every day – missing lessons makes learning harder. 
  1. Making Friends
  • 🤝 Encourage your child to join playgroups, lunchtime clubs, or after-school activities. 
  • 🌍 Many UK schools are diverse – reassure your child that they are not alone in learning English. 
  1. Homework & Reading
  • 📖 Schools expect parents to support their child with reading and basic homework. 
  • 📕 If English is difficult, you can still read together in your home language – strong first language skills help with learning English. 

💡Hint: If your child is struggling, speak to their teacher or EAL Coordinator – they are there to help! 

How Can I Stay Involved in My Child’s Education? 

Attend Parents’ Evenings to meet teachers and discuss progress. 
Read school newsletters and emails for important updates. 
Ask the school for translated materials or interpreter support if needed. 
Speak to the teacher or EAL Coordinator if you have concerns about your child’s learning. 

Who Can I Speak to If I Need Help? 

  1. Class Teacher – First contact for any concerns about your child’s progress. 

  2. EAL Coordinator – Helps children learning English as an additional language. 

  3. Headteacher or Deputy Head – Manages the school and supports parents. 

  4. School Office – Can help with forms, payments, and general enquiries. 

  5. Community Support Groups – Some areas have parent networks or cultural groups for newly arrived families. 

💡Hint: Schools in the UK encourage parent involvement, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek support. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Newly Arrived Families 

  1. Attend the school induction and check uniform requirements before your child starts.
  2. EAL support is available – Schools offer language assessments, extra lessons, and classroom support.
  3. Encourage your child to practise English, join activities, and make friends to help them settle in.
  4. Stay involved by attending Parents’ Evenings, checking school emails, and talking to teachers.
  5. Ask for help if needed – Schools and community services are there to support your family. 

Starting at a new school can take time, but your child is not alone – teachers and staff are here to help every step of the way! 😊 

Table of Contents

Understanding the British Education System

School Stages: Nursery, Reception, Years 1-6 

  • Subjects Taught: English, maths, science, and additional subjects like art, PE, and history 
  • Assessments & Tests: 
  • Phonics Screening (Year 1) – Tests early reading skills. 

SATs (Year 2 & Year 6) – Standardised assessments for progress checks. 

Understanding the School Stages in Primary School 

In the UK, primary school is for children aged 4 to 11 years old. It is divided into two key stages: 

  • Key Stage 1 (KS1) – Years 1 & 2 (ages 5-7) 
  • Key Stage 2 (KS2) – Years 3 to 6 (ages 7-11) 

Each stage builds on children’s learning to prepare them for the next level of education. Below is a guide to what happens at each stage, what children learn, and how parents can support them. 

What happens? 

  • Reception is the first year of primary school, focusing on learning through play and structured activities. 
  • Children develop early skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, and basic maths. 
  • Social and emotional development is key at this stage. 

What do children learn? 

  • Recognising letters and simple words (phonics). 
  • Counting, recognising numbers, and simple addition/subtraction. 
  • Learning to listen, follow instructions, and share with others. 

How parents can help: 
Read with your child every day. 
Encourage them to talk about their day and ask questions. 
Practise counting and recognising numbers in everyday life (e.g., counting toys, reading numbers on doors). 

What happens? 

  • More structured learning begins, with a focus on reading, writing, maths, and science. 
  • Children take their first national assessments in Year 1 and Year 2. 

What do children learn? 

  • English: Learning to read fluently, writing full sentences, and improving spelling. 
  • Maths: Basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. 
  • Science: Exploring plants, animals, seasons, and simple experiments. 
  • Other subjects: Art, music, PE, history, geography, and computing. 

Important assessments: 
📌Phonics Screening Test (Year 1) – Tests children’s ability to read words using phonics (the sounds that letters make). 
📌Year 2 SATs – Assess reading, writing, and maths to check progress. 

How parents can help: 
Listen to your child read daily. 
Practise simple spelling and writing activities. 
Use number games to build confidence in maths. 

  1. What happens? 

    • Children build on what they learned in KS1 and study more complex topics. 
    • They become more independent learners. 

    What do children learn? 

    • English: Writing longer stories and reports, using correct grammar and punctuation. 
    • Maths: Fractions, decimals, percentages, and problem-solving. 
    • Science: Electricity, forces, the human body, and scientific investigations. 
    • Other subjects: Languages (from Year 3), history, geography, art, music, PE, computing. 

    Important assessments: 
    📌Year 4 Multiplication Check – Tests knowledge of times tables up to 12×12. 
    📌Year 6 SATs – National tests in reading, maths, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. These help decide which level of support children need in secondary school. 

    How parents can help: 
    Encourage reading and discussing books together. 
    Help with times tables and maths practice at home. 
    Talk to teachers if your child needs extra support. 

Summary of Primary School Stages

Stage Year Group Ages Description  Main Learning Focus Key Tests 
Nursery 

 

 

 

 

3-4 years Pre-school education focusing on play-based learning.   
Reception  4-5 years The first year of school, where children learn basic reading, writing, and maths skills. None  
Key Stage 1 Year 1 5-6 years Introduction to structured lessons in English, maths, and other subjects. Phonics, basic reading, writing, and maths Phonics Screening Check 
 Year 2 6-7 years Continued learning with a focus on reading, writing, and problem-solving. Reading fluency, writing sentences, simple maths Year 2 SATs 
Key Stage 2 Year 3 7-8 years More independent learning, advanced writing, and maths skills. Independent reading, writing paragraphs, fractions None 
 Year 4 8-9 years Times tables and deeper subject knowledge. Times tables, more complex grammar, science experiments Multiplication Check 
 Year 5 9-10 years Preparation for secondary school, advanced comprehension, and reasoning. Preparing for secondary school, advanced writing and maths None 
 Year 6 10-11 years Final primary school year, preparing for transition to secondary school. Final primary school stage, advanced problem-solving Year 6 SATs 

📖 Subjects Taught in Primary School

Children study a broad curriculum designed to support their development in key areas. 

Core Subjects: 

English – Reading, writing, grammar, and speaking skills. 
Maths – Numbers, arithmetic, fractions, and problem-solving. 
Science – Learning about plants, animals, materials, forces, and electricity. 

Additional Subjects: 

History & Geography – Learning about the past, different cultures, and the world. 
Physical Education (PE) – Sports, exercise, and movement skills. 
Art & Music – Creative skills, painting, drawing, singing, and playing instruments. 
Computing (ICT) – Learning to use technology, coding, and online safety. 
Religious Education (RE) – Learning about different cultures and religions. 
Modern Foreign Languages (from Year 3 onwards) – Learning basic vocabulary in a new language. 

💡Some schools also offer extra activities like drama, outdoor learning, or clubs for different interests. 

📝 Key Assessments & Tests in Primary School

To check children’s progress, they take national assessments at different stages. 

📌 Tests how well children can read words using phonics (the sounds that letters make).

📌 Children read 40 words, some real and some made-up, to assess their reading ability.

📌 The school will tell parents if their child needs extra help with reading. 

👨👩👧How parents can help: 
Practise reading simple books at home. 
Use phonics games or apps to build confidence. 
Speak to the teacher if you’re concerned about progress. 

Children take SATs at the end of Key Stage 1 (Year 2) and Key Stage 2 (Year 6) to check their progress in reading, writing, and maths. 

📌Year 2 SATs (Key Stage 1): 

  • Tests reading, maths, and spelling, punctuation & grammar (SPaG). 
  • Marked by the teacher, with results used to plan future learning. 

📌Year 6 SATs (Key Stage 2): 

  • More formal tests in reading, maths, and SPaG (spelling, punctuation & grammar). 
  • Results help secondary schools understand students’ learning levels. 

👨👩👧How parents can help: 
Encourage daily reading and talking about books. 
Use fun maths activities at home (counting money, measuring while cooking). 
Keep learning fun—SATs are important, but they are just one part of your child’s education. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Parents 

The UK school system supports learning from a young age, building skills step by step. 
Core subjects like English, maths, and science are the foundation of education. 
National assessments help schools understand how to support your child’s learning. 
Parents can help by dailyreading with children 
Support your child with basic maths skills from an early age. 
Attend parent meetings to track progress and ask for support if needed. 
Use school resources and ask teachers for advice if your child needs help. 

This guide aims to help you understand what happens in each stage of primary school and how you can support your child’s learning at home. If you have any questions, speak to your child’s teacher or the school’s EAL support team. 

If you have any questions, speak to your child’s teacher or the school’s EAL support team for extra guidance. 🎓😊 

School Life & Expectations

  • School Uniform & Equipment: What parents need to buy (uniforms, PE kits, book bags). 
  • School Day & Attendance: Timings, importance of regular attendance, and how to report absences. 
  • Homework & Reading: How to support children at home. 
  • Lunchtime & School Meals: Options for free school meals, packed lunches. 

📘 School Life & Expectations in Primary School: A Guide for EAL Parents

This guide will help you understand what your child needs for school, what happens during the school day, and how you can support them at home. 

👕 School Uniform & Equipment

Most schools in the UK require a uniform. This helps children feel part of the school and makes sure everyone wears suitable clothing. 

What uniform does my child need? 

Each school has its own uniform rules. You can ask the school for a uniform list or check their website. Common uniform items include: 

Trousers, skirts, or dresses in the school’s colours (often black, grey, or navy). 
Polo shirts or shirts (usually white or light-coloured). 
Jumpers or cardigans with the school logo (some schools require this). 
Black shoes (no trainers or open-toe sandals). 

What does my child need for PE (Physical Education)? 

PE lessons help children stay active and healthy. Schools usually ask children to bring: 
PE T-shirt (often in the school’s colour). 
Shorts or jogging bottoms. 
Trainers or plimsolls (sports shoes). 

Other things your child may need: 

🎒Book Bag – For carrying books and homework (some schools provide this). 
✏️Stationery – Schools often provide pencils, erasers, and rulers, but check if your child needs to bring their own. 
🧥Coat & Hat – The UK weather can change quickly, so children should have warm and waterproof clothes. 

💡Hint: Some supermarkets and second-hand shops sell uniforms at lower prices. Ask the school if they have a second-hand uniform shop. 

🕒 School Day & Attendance

What time does school start and finish? 

Each school has different times, but most primary schools follow this schedule: 

🕘Start Time: 8:30 – 9:00 AM 
🍽Lunch Break: 12:00 – 1:00 PM 
🏫End of School Day: 3:00 – 3:30 PM 

Some schools offer breakfast clubs (before school) and after-school clubs for extra activities. 

Why is regular attendance important? 

Children learn best when they come to school every day. Missing lessons can make learning harder. 

Good attendance = better learning and friendships. 
Too many absences = missing important lessons. 

What should I do if my child is sick? 

📞 Call the school before 9:00 AM to tell them your child is unwell. 
📩 Some schools have an online system or ask for an email or text message. 

💡Hint: If your child is feeling a little unwell but not too sick, it’s best to send them to school. The school will call you if they need to go home. 

What happens if we are late? 

If your child is late, they must go to the school office to sign in. Being on time helps your child start the day calmly and not miss learning. 

💡Hint: If you have problems with getting to school on time (for example, transport issues), talk to the school. They may be able to help. 

📖 Homework & Reading

How much homework will my child get? 

Homework is usually simple and helps children practise what they learn in school. 

📘Reading – 10-15 minutes every night. 
✏️Spelling or phonics – 1-2 times a week. 
Maths (basic practice) – Once a week. 

💡Hint: If your child finds homework difficult, talk to the teacher. Schools want to help! 

How can I support my child at home? 

Read together every day. Even 10 minutes of reading helps children learn new words. 
Ask your child about their day. Encourage them to talk about what they learned. 
Use everyday maths. Counting money, measuring while cooking, or telling the time are easy ways to practise. 

💡Hint: If English is not your first language, you can still read with your child in your home language. This helps them understand stories and ideas better. 

🥪 Lunchtime & School Meals

What are the options for school meals? 

Children can either: 
🥗Have a school meal – Hot meals are provided at school. 
🥪Bring a packed lunch – A lunch prepared at home. 

How do school meals work? 

  • School meals must be paid for unless your child gets free school meals (see below). 
  • Some schools let parents order meals online in advance. 
  • Meals usually include a main dish, vegetables, fruit, and a drink. 

What can my child bring for packed lunch? 

A healthy packed lunch could include: 
A sandwich or wrap (with meat, cheese, or vegetables). 
A piece of fruit or vegetables (carrot sticks, apple, banana). 
Water or juice (no fizzy drinks). 
A yogurt or small treat. 

🚫 Some schools do not allow nuts in packed lunches because of allergies. 

🍎 Free School Meals: Can my child get them?

Some families can apply for free school meals if they have a low income or receive benefits. 

📌Who can apply? 

  • If you get Universal Credit, Income Support, or other benefits. 
  • If your child is in Reception, Year 1, or Year 2, they automatically get free school meals. 

💡How to apply? 
Ask the school office or check the council website. 
It’s private – no one else will know your child gets free meals. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Parents

Buy the correct school uniform & PE kit (ask the school if unsure). 
Make sure your child attends school every day and arrives on time. 
Help with reading and homework at home in small, fun ways. 
Check if your child can get free school meals. 
If you have any questions, speak to the school – they are happy to help! 

If you need extra support or have questions, talk to your child’s teacher, school office, or EAL support team. Schools are here to support you and your child! 😊 

🛡️ Safeguarding & Wellbeing: A Guide for EAL Parents in Primary School

Keeping children safe is the most important job of every school in the UK. Schools follow safeguarding policies to protect children from harm and make sure they feel safe, happy, and supported. 

This guide explains: 
What safeguarding is and why it is important. 
School policies and who to contact for concerns. 
Online safety and how to protect children on the internet. 
Extra support for children’s mental and emotional wellbeing. 

🔹 What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding means keeping children safe from harm, abuse, or neglect. Schools must make sure that children are protected both inside and outside school. 

How does the school keep children safe? 

Teachers and staff are trained to look after children and notice any problems. 
All staff have background checks before working in school. 
Schools teach children about safety – including stranger danger, online safety, and healthy relationships. 
There are clear rules for behaviour, bullying, and discipline. 

💡Hint: If you are worried about your child’s safety, you can talk to the school. They will listen and help. 

📜 School Policies: Who to Contact for Concerns

Schools have safeguarding policies to make sure every child is safe. These include: 

1.Anti-Bullying Policy 

What is Bullying? 

Bullying is when a person hurts, upsets, or frightens someone on purpose and more than once. It can happen in school, online, or anywhere. Bullying is not an accident – it is when someone chooses to be unkind to another person. 

Types of Bullying 

🔹Physical Bullying – Hitting, kicking, pushing, or breaking someone’s things. 
🔹Verbal Bullying – Saying mean things, calling names, making fun of someone. 
🔹Social Bullying – Excluding (leaving someone out), spreading lies, making others ignore someone. 
🔹Online Bullying (Cyberbullying) – Sending mean messages, posting hurtful comments, or sharing private pictures without permission. 

Bullying is NOT okay 

Everyone deserves respect – no one should feel scared or sad because of someone else. 
Bullying can hurt feelings and make children not want to go to school. 
Schools take bullying seriously and will help if your child is being bullied. 

What Should You Do If Your Child is Being Bullied? 

Tell the school – Speak to the teacher or school office. Schools must stop bullying. 
Talk to your child – Let them know they are not alone and it is not their fault. 
Encourage friendships – Help your child spend time with kind friends. 
Teach them to ask for help – If they feel scared, they should tell a teacher or trusted adult. 

💡Hint: If your child is bullying others, talk to them about kindness and respect. Schools can help support positive behaviour. 

Bullying is serious, but schools and parents can work together to stop it. If you have any concerns, talk to your child’s teacher or the school’s safeguarding team. 💙 

  • Bullying is not allowed in any UK school. 
  • If your child is being bullied, speak to their teacher. Schools must take action. 
  1. Behaviour Policy
  • Schools expect children to be kind, respectful, and follow rules. 
  • If a child misbehaves, the school will work with parents to help them improve. 
  1. Attendance Policy

In the UK, all children aged 5 to 16 must go to school. It is the law that children must attend school every day unless they are ill or have a good reason. 

Good attendance helps children learn better, make friends, and build good habits for the future. Schools take attendance seriously and expect children to be on time every day. 

  • If a child misses a lot of school, the school will contact parents to check if everything is okay. 
  • Good attendance helps children learn better and make friends. 
  • Schools expect at least 95% attendance, which means children should not miss more than a few days each year. 

📅 Why is Good Attendance Important?

Children learn better when they attend school every day. 
Missing school = missing lessons – it can be difficult to catch up. 
Attendance affects future success – children who attend school regularly do better in exams and jobs. 

❌ What If My Child is Sick?

If your child is unwell and cannot go to school: 

📞Call the school office as soon as possible (before 9:00 AM) to tell them. 
📩 Some schools allow you to send a text message or email to report an absence. 

💡Hint: If your child has a small cold but feels okay, they should still go to school. The school will contact you if they need to come home. 

🚨 What Happens If My Child Misses Too Much School?

  • If a child misses too many days, the school will ask to meet with parents. 
  • If attendance does not improve, the school may involve the local council, and parents could get a fine (money penalty). 

💡Hint: If your child has a long-term illness or family issues, tell the school. They can offer support and make a plan to help.

✈️ Can I Take My Child on Holiday During School Time?

  • Holidays during school time are not allowed unless there is an emergency. 
  • If you need to travel, ask the school for permission in advance. 
  • Schools can refuse permission and may give parents a fine if a child misses school for a holiday. 

💡Hint: Plan holidays during school breaks (Christmas, Easter, summer) to avoid problems. 

⏰ What If We Are Late to School?

Being on time is very important. If a child arrives late, they may: 
🚪Miss morning lessons and feel behind. 
📑Have to sign in at the school office and explain why they are late. 
⚠️If a child is late too often, the school will speak to parents. 

💡Hint:Morning routine is key! Prepare school clothes and bags the night before to help mornings run smoothly. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Parents

Children must attend school every day unless they are sick. 
Call the school early if your child is ill. 
Holidays during school time are not allowed without permission. 
Being late can cause problems for learning. 
If you have concerns about attendance, talk to the school – they are here to help! 

If you have any questions or need support, speak to your child’s teacher or school office. Schools want to work with parents to help every child succeed! 😊 

👨‍🏫 Who Can Parents Talk to for Help?

If you are worried about your child’s safety, happiness, or behaviour, you can: 

Speak to your child’s teacher – they see your child every day and can help. 
Talk to the school’s safeguarding lead – this is the person responsible for child protection. 
Contact the school office – they can direct you to the right person. 

💡Hint: If English is difficult for you, ask for an interpreter or bring a friend who can help translate. Schools want to communicate with all parents. 

🌐 Online Safety: Protecting Children on the Internet

The internet is a great place for learning and having fun, but it can also be unsafe if children are not careful. As a parent, it is important to help your child stay safe online and understand the risks. 

⚠️ What Are the Dangers Online?

Talking to strangers – Some people online pretend to be children but may have bad intentions. 
Seeing inappropriate content – Some websites, videos, or games are not suitable for children. 
Sharing personal information – Children should never share their full name, school, address, or photos with strangers. 
Cyberbullying – Some children experience bullying on social media, in messages, or in online games. 

💡Hint:Teach your child to think before they share – once something is posted online, it is difficult to remove it. 

🛑 What Parents Should NOT Do Online

🚫Do not record or upload videos of school events if other children are in them. 

  • Schools do not allow parents to share videos or photos online if other children are visible. 
  • This is to protect children’s privacy and keep them safe. 
  • If you take a picture of your child at a school event, make sure no other children are in the background before sharing it online. 

💡Hint: Schools may provide official photos or recordings for parents to enjoy safely. 

🚫School Photo Permissions 

When you register your child at school, you may need to sign a form allowing the school to use their photos on the website or newsletters. 
You can say no if you don’t want their photo to be shared. 

💡Hint: If you are unsure, ask the school office for more information. 

🛡️ How to Keep Your Child Safe Online

Use parental controls – Set up filters on phones, tablets, and computers to block inappropriate content. 
Check privacy settings – Make sure social media accounts and games are set to private, not public. 
Limit screen time – Set rules about how long your child can use the internet each day. 
Encourage safe websites – Sites like BBC Bitesize, CBeebies, and National Geographic Kids are great for learning. 
Talk to your child – Ask them about what they do online and who they talk to. 

💡Hint: Many apps and games have age limits – check before allowing your child to use them. 

👨‍👩‍👧 What to Do If Your Child is in Danger Online

⚠️If your child sees something inappropriate or feels unsafe online: 
Tell them to stop using the website or app immediately. 
Report the issue to the school or the website’s support team. 
Talk to your child – let them know they can always come to you if they feel uncomfortable online. 

💡Hint: If you are not sure how to set parental controls, ask the school or another parent for help. Many schools offer online safety workshops for families. 

📌 Key Takeaways for Parents

Teach your child not to talk to strangers online. 
Check their privacy settings and monitor screen time. 
Do not record or share videos of school events with other children in them. 
Encourage safe and educational websites. 
If your child experiences a problem online, speak to the school – they are here to help. 

If you have any concerns about online safety, talk to your child’s teacher or the school’s safeguarding team. Keeping children safe is a team effort! 😊