News

Online Safety during lockdown

3rd  June 2020

In the current environment, many of us are using different ways to try and keep in touch with our friends and family. One app that has risen in popularity is Houseparty, which gained the no.1 spot on the app store after becoming one of the most downloaded apps since social isolation was introduced. Billed as a ‘face to face social network’ the platform launched in 2016 but isn’t as widely known as Facebook, WhatsApp or Snapchat.

Another is Zoom. Founded in 2011, Zoom is one the world’s leading video conferencing software providers. It has a number of features, including video and audio conferencing, real-time messaging, screen-sharing and the ability to upload, share and search for content. Users can start their own meetings or they can join meetings set up by others. The app is available to use across PCs, laptops, tablets and mobiles phones and is free to download on both the app store and on Android.

Facebook Messenger has been an intricate part of Facebook for some time. It is used by billions of people all over the world and has slowly evolved over the years, now offering more than just a simple text messaging service. More recently, it has introduced ‘Messenger Rooms’ in a bid to rival other video calling software platforms, such as Zoom for instance.

Remote learning can be a great way to continue learning outside the classroom, particularly in difficult circumstances. For students, it’s the perfect way to ensure they still get the education they need, despite not being at school. However it also requires a level of discipline and careful planning.

In times like these, we can often forget how important it is to try and maintain our own happiness and wellbeing. It’s not only important for ourselves, but also our family, friends, colleagues and many of those who depend on us. Staying positive and trying to implement little things like physical exercise, a healthy diet or getting a good night’s sleep, can have big results.

That’s why we’ve uploaded these guides to help pupils and parents understand different aspects of remote learning and to support them in ensuring their experience is as safe and secure as it can be. Also to help everyone think about some of the positive steps they can take to establish and keep good mental wellbeing.

All PDFs can be found on our Online Safety page.