All schools in England are to introduce stricter content filtering to protect children from accessing harmful content online. While many schools already provide some level of content filtering, under new plans unveiled today, stricter filtering would become mandatory.
The filtering system bars websites and search engine results pages that mention topics such as violence, self-harm, pornography, and content related to terrorism.
Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said: “As a parent I’ve seen just what an important role the internet can play in children’s education. But it can also bring risks, which is why we must do everything we can to help children stay safe online – at school and at home.”
“This includes ensuring young people know how to use the internet responsibly and that parents and teachers have the right measures in place to keep children safe from exploitation or radicalisation.”
The plans come following reports of school children travelling or attempting to travel to Syria or the surrounding countries to join ISIS. It is thought that the children were able to access radicalising content about ISIS on school computers.
She added: “These measures are delivering on the government’s commitment to keep children safe from harm, as well as providing helpful support and information for professionals and parents so we are all equipped to help protect children in this digital age.”
In addition to the filtering, schools will be required to teach children how to safeguard themselves online. Resources for parents and professionals who work with children have also been prepared to ensure children are best protected.