Explicit content on mobile phones, or 'Sexting', is when someone shares sexual, naked or semi-naked images or videos of themselves or others, or sends sexually explicit messages. They can be sent using mobiles, tablets, smartphones, laptops - any device that allows you to share media and messages. A young person is breaking the law if they: take an explicit photo or video of themselves or a friend; share an explicit image or video of a child, even if it’s shared between children of the same age; possess, download or store an explicit image or video of a child, even if the child gave their permission for it to be created.

The child will become vulnerable if these photographs are shared publicly and they may become subject to blackmail, bullying or it may cause unwanted attention or emotional distress.

The pupils at Cheviot Primary School are taught about keeping themselves safe online during Internet Safety Week. Within this time, the children are taught about sending appropriate texts, tweets and other social media messages. They are also taught about the positives of text messaging and the virtual world. As well as the positives, the teachers help the pupils to explore the negatives of using mobile phones and other devices. Additionally, the children in our school learn the risks of sending unwanted or explicit content.

Our children are taught about having a positive self-image and to respect their own bodies throughout school.

At Cheviot Primary School we have a strict no mobile phone policy, if any child brings their mobile phone on site it needs to be brought to the school office until the end of the school day when they can then pick it up for their journey home. If a mobile phone is necessary for the journey to and from school, children  MUST have a mobile phone form signed by a parent or guardian with the reason why a mobile phone is required.

Please see the permission form below: