As we settle into our new school I thought I would raise awareness around the safe use of all our wonderful new technology. We can all experience the internet and mobile phones as a positive and creative part of our activities and information technology supports social activity that allows you to feel connected to your friends.

Unfortunately technology can be used negatively and you may become the target of bullying via mobile phones or the internet. One study carried out by the Anti-Bullying Alliance found that 22% of young people reported being the target of cyberbullying

Safer Internet Day
Safer Internet Day is organised by Insafe each year in February to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people across the world. The topic for 2010 is "Think B4 U post!".
In 2009 Safer Internet Day was celebrated through 500 events in 50 countries all over the world.

Tuesday 9th February 2010
European Safer Internet Day (SID) is supported by countries throughout Europe and during the week, a range of activities will be taking place across the continent to help protect young people online. The theme for SID10 is ‘Think Before You Post’. The whole week (from Monday 8th February – Friday 12th February 2010) will be a week of action in the UK.
If you are interested in finding out more and getting involved log on to Thinkuknow’s Safer Internet Day 2010 website. These pages identify activities that you may wish to promote or get involved with, as well as highlight various resources (from CEOP and other organisations) that will help you raise awareness in our school.
Read on to see how you can take part...

Think B4 U post!
What can YOU do to tackle CYBERBULLYING?

* KEEP EVIDENCE of cyberbullying by saving messages and MSN conversations. The PSNI will investigate any reports of abuse or harassment.
* DON’T REPLY Block the sender and it report it to an adult you can trust.
* REPORT IT Most websites and mobile phone operators have a place where you can report abuse.
* ALWAYS RESPECT OTHERS. Be careful what you SAY and what you SEND Messages and images could be made public and stay online for ever.

* PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY In chat rooms use a nickname . Don’t give out personal information, name address, phone number or say which school you go to. Keep your password safe and don’t share it with anyone.
* TELL SOMEONE - ALWAYS TELL SOMEONE YOU CAN TRUST.
* Tell a parent, teacher or an adult you can trust.
* Call CHILDLINE on 0800 1111 or go to www.cybermentors.org.uk