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Children: Internet

Volume 467: debated on Thursday 15 November 2007

To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what arrangements are in place in England for teaching children in school about safe browsing of content on the internet; and if he will make a statement. (162099)

[holding answer 12 November 2007]: Becta has worked closely with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) to ensure that the revised secondary curriculum includes references to the teaching of e-safety. This is reflected in the revised level descriptors for each of the key stages. Becta and the QCA have also developed an Internet Proficiency scheme for Key Stage 2 pupils.

The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) has also developed ThinkUKnow a primary and secondary education programme for schools which focuses on developing safe and responsible behaviours online. This has been delivered to over one million children.

Becta works closely with local authorities and schools to ensure that there are appropriate measures in place to cover education and training for teachers, leaders and pupils, a safe secure infrastructure, effective policies and monitoring procedures all underpinned by robust standards and frameworks.

In addition, the Prime Minister has asked clinical psychologist Dr. Tanya Byron to conduct an independent review looking at the risks to children from exposure to potentially harmful or inappropriate material on the internet and in video games. The review will consider how all in society, including schools, parents, Government and industry can support children and young people to use the internet safely.