School website

The use of images and information about children on school websites is an issue for three reasons: a child might be identified and targeted by an individual (for example, an estranged parent or a paedophile) on the basis of material published online, placing the child at physical risk; a child's image might be stolen and manipulated by someone using imaging software to create offensive or illegal pornographic images; or another person may use the child's information to impersonate them.

The school should therefore:

• be cautious about publishing pictures of pupils, and ensure that this only happens in line with Council policy. Ensure that the appropriate permissions are obtained
• not identify pupils by name or give their email addresses. The use of email by children is also covered in Curricular Issues
• have text written by children checked by a member of staff before publication, as it may include potentially problematic material, such as personal information or libellous statements. Children should be encouraged to think carefully about what they say
• have a member of staff check any additions or amendments to the school site before it goes live. This should include checking any links placed on the site, and these should be regularly reviewed.

E-mail comments to DoubleClickThinking@LTScotland.org.uk

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