The NetSafe Programme for Schools provides comprehensive access to relevant and timely cybersafety advice, expertise and resources.

The 2007 NetSafe Kit for Schools forms the cornerstone of the NetSafe Programme. It provides an easy to follow, step-by-step guide, for schools as they set up and maintain a cybersafety framework.  The kit is available free from the Schools section of the NetSafe website.

There are three main components presented in the NetSafe kit, which any school needs to address when developing a robust cybersafety programme:

• A system of cybersafety policies and procedures
• Effective electronic security
• Education for students, staff, and parents.

Whether a school is just beginning to address cybersafety, or is in the middle of reviewing its internet safety programme, following the advice within the NetSafe Kit will ensure the school’s cybersafety programme is based on best practice, and that it will remain useful well into the future.

Training
Because it can be challenging to find the time to co-ordinate such a comprehensive programme within a school, NetSafe offers a range of training options designed to bring the team responsible for cybersafety together and up to speed quickly. 

Attendees learn how to implement the NetSafe programme for schools, as well as the legislative requirements related to school cybersafety, and the many professional, educational and technological issues.

Since training began in 2004, over 1500 teachers, school leaders, counsellors, librarians and board members have attended NetSafe training courses.

For more information on training options, schools should contact NetSafe at , or visit our website.

Cluster-wide Approach to Cybersafety
NetSafe expertise can also be accessed on a cluster-wide basis.  In this model, an ICT Professional Development cluster funds a number of events in a concentrated period.  These events could include:

• Training courses for staff from the cluster schools
• NetSafe presentations at staff and parent meetings
• Consultation regarding policy and use agreements
• Student workshops and presentations
• Schoolwide cybersafety reviews

This approach is a cost efficient way of kick-starting a cybersafety programme across an entire cluster.  It demonstrates not only a practical application of the cluster model, but exemplifies a common commitment to the safety and well-being of students and staff of the schools involved.

Many of these services can also be delivered to individual schools, on a cost recovery basis.

Other elements of the NetSafe Programme for Schools
NetSafe supports schools to maintain their cybersafe learning environments by also offering:

• An informative range of pamphlets which can be ordered for each student to take home.  Schools are charged postage only for these resources. A resource order form is available from the “Schools section” of the NetSafe website
• An independent, toll free advice service for schools facing cybersafety issues. This service can offer help regarding responses to incidents, or referral to appropriate agencies [0508 NETSAFE]
• The NetSafe School Alert service.  An ‘opt-in’ email service providing occasional information and alerts about current school related cybersafety issues. [netsafeschoolalert@netsafe.org.nz]
• Free templates for schools developing cybersafety policies and acceptable use agreements
• An evolving array of cybersafety resources for classroom teachers, including the Hector’s World™,  animated episodes and teaching resources.  

The NetSafe Education team are always happy to answer any queries schools may have via phone [09 362 0971] or email [queries@netsafe.org.nz].

We look forward to working with schools as they make the most of the many exciting opportunities that modern technologies have to offer.