new beginnings day nursery devices and online safety-romford · learn to communicate through...

Version 1 – April 2019

New Beginnings Day

Nursery Devices and

Online Safety-Romford

Policy and Procedure

This policy was adopted on

Signed on behalf of the

management team at New

Beginnings Nurseries Ltd

Date for review

September 2019

September 2020


Contents Page

1. Introduction

2. Online safety, what is online safety?

3. Access and storage information

4. E Safety policy and procedure

5. Social Media policy and procedure

6. Acceptable use policy and procedure

7. Mobile phone and electrical devices policy and procedure

8. Useful information and contacts


1. Introduction.

Technology has developed over recent years and will continue to evolve, leaving many of us

struggling to keep up. Children will often be the first to embrace new technologies. As an

adult it can be daunting to embrace a culture, which requires us to fully understand a wide

range of developing technologies that we have not been bought up with.

Technology has had, and will continue to have, a profound effect on the way we

communicate. For example, texting, instant messaging online chat and emailing are for many

a normal and accepted means of ‘written’ and spoken communication. Many young children

learn to communicate through technology before they learn to read and write.

Technology encompasses a wide range of media applications and connecting methods, which

are continually changing and advancing.

These include:

• Computers, laptops, iPad’s, tablets, smart TVs – access to fixed and mobile internet,

email, chat rooms, blogs, social networking sites, podcasts, instant messaging and

location based technologies;

• Wireless and Broadband access;

• Mobile phones with internet access, Bluetooth, cameras, videos, Wi-Fi and more;

• Gaming – online and game consoles, such as the Xbox, or the PlayStation, many of

which can interconnect with other devices;

• Video broadcasting and music downloading;

• Digital cameras

• Whiteboards

As practitioners and managers, we should recognise the exciting opportunities and the

innovative tools in advance technology will provide. We should therefore embrace this, as a

central role of supporting the learning and development needs of children and young people.

It is therefore vital that us as early years practitioners and managers have a clear and agreed

understanding of benefits and risks of such technology.

The influence and value of technology should be firmly embedded within the Early Years

Foundation Stage (EYFS) and it must therefore be reflected in practice. By the end of the

EYFS, most children will be able to demonstrate and achieve the following early learning

goal:

‘Find out about and identify the uses of everyday technology and use information technology

and programme toys to support their learning’

We should therefore ensure we support children in using a range of technology and resources

and encourage them to talk about technology, what it does, what they can do with it and how

to use it safely.


2.Online safety, what is online safety?

Online Safety is the knowledge of maximizing the user's personal safety and security risks on

private information and property associated with using the Internet, and the self-protection

from computer crime. As the number Internet users continue to grow worldwide, Internet

safety is a growing concern for both children and adults. Common concerns regarding safety

of the Internet include malicious users, websites and software and various types of obscene or

offensive content. Several crimes can be committed on the Internet such as stalking, identity

theft and more. Most social networking and chat sites have a page about safety. Numerous

groups, and governments and organizations have expressed concerns and are dedicated to the

safety of children using the Internet.

The Designated Safeguarding Lead is ultimately responsible for online safety concerns. All

concerns need to be raised as soon as possible to Ellie Wiggins.

At New Beginnings we aim to keep our children and staff safe online by:

• Ensuring we have appropriate antivirus and anti-spyware software on all devices and

update them regularly.

• Ensuring content blockers and filters are on all our devices, e.g. computers, laptops

and any mobile devices.

• Keeping passwords safe and secure, not sharing or writing these down. These will be

changed on a regular basis to keep the devices secure.

• Ensure management monitor all internet activities in the setting.

• Locking away all nursery devices at the end of the day.

• Ensuring no social media or messaging apps are installed on nursery devices other

than the nursery Twitter account and Instagram (these devices where these apps are

available are not accessed by children).

• Only management can download any apps or games to nursery tablets to ensure all

are age appropriate for children and safeguard the children and staff.

• Only approved devices to record/photograph in the setting.

• Never emailing personal or financial information.

• Reporting emails with inappropriate content to the internet watch foundation (IWF

www.iwf.org.uk).

• Ensuring children are supervised when using electronic devices.

• Not permitting staff or visitors access to the nursery Wi-Fi.

• Integrating online safety into nursery daily practice by discussing computer usage

‘rules’ deciding together what is safe and what is not safe to do online.

• Talking to children about ‘stranger danger’ and deciding who is a stranger and who is

not, comparing people in real life situations to online ‘friends’.

• Provide training for staff at least annually in online safety and understanding how to

keep children safe online. We encourage staff and families to complete an online

safety briefing which can be found at https://moodle.ndna.org.uk.

• We abide by an acceptable use policy, ensuring staff only use the work IT equipment

for matters relating to the children and their education and care. No personal use will

be tolerated.

• Children’s screen time is monitored to ensure they remain safe online and have

access to material that promotes their development. We will ensure that their screen

time is within an acceptable level and is integrated within their programme of

learning.

https://moodle.ndna.org.uk/course/index.php?categoryid=27


• Under no circumstances should any member of staff, either at work or in any other

place, make deliberately download, possess, or distribute material they know to be

illegal, for example child sexual abuse material.

• The nursery is aware of the need to manage our digital reputation, including the

appropriateness of information and content that we post online, both professionally

and personally. This is continually monitored by the settings management.

All electronic communications between staff and parents should be professional and take

place via the official nursery communication channels e.g. the settings email addresses and

telephone numbers. This is to protect staff, children and parents.

If any concerns arise relating to online safety then we will follow our safeguarding policy and

report all online safety concerns to the DSL.

The DSL will make sure that:

• All staff know how to report a problem and when to escalate a concern, including the

process for external referral if they feel it is needed

• All concerns are logged, assessed and actioned upon using the Nursery’s Safeguarding

procedure

• Parents are supported to develop their knowledge of online safety issues concerning

their children

• Parents are offered support to help them talk about online safety with their children

using appropriate resources

• Parents are signposted to appropriate sources of support regarding online safety at

home and are fully supported to understand how to report an online safety concern

• The Professionals Online Safety Helpline (0344 381 4772 or

[email protected]) is shared with all staff and used if any concerns arise

• Refer to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and-

protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-

considerations/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-professionals-in-early-years-

settings-online-safety-considerations-for-managers to ensure all requirements are met

in order to keep children and staff safe online

Share https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-

professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-considerations/safeguarding-children-and-

protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-guidance-for-practitioners with

the wider team to help them to keep themselves safe online, both personally and

professionally

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-considerations/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-considerations-for-managers




https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-considerations/safeguarding-children-and-protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-guidance-for-practitioners




3. Access and storage of information

At New Beginnings Nurseries Ltd we have an open access policy in relation to accessing

information about the nursery and parents’ own children. This policy is subject to the laws

relating to data protection and document retention.

Parents are welcome to view the policies and procedures of the nursery which govern the way

in which the nursery operates. These may be viewed at any time when the nursery is open,

simply by asking the nursery manager. The nursery manager or any other relevant staff member

will also explain any policies and procedures to parents or use any other methods to make sure

that parents understand these in line with the nursery’s communications policy.

Parents are also welcome, to see and contribute to all the records that are kept on their child.

However, we must adhere to data protection laws and, where relevant, any guidance from the

relevant agencies for child protection.

As we hold personal information about staff and families, we are registered under data

protection law with the Information Commissioner’s Office. A copy of the certificate can be

viewed within the nurseries. All parent, child and staff information are stored securely

according to the requirements of data protection registration including details, permissions,

certificates and photographic images. We will ensure that staff understand the need to protect

the privacy of the children in their care as well as the legal requirements that exist to ensure

that information relating to the child is handled in a way that ensures confidentiality.

The nursery’s records and documentation that are required to be kept and stored by current

legislation are performed in accordance with minimum legal archiving requirements. We

currently archive these records for at least 25 years to ensure we are covered for any child

protection concerns.

Nursery records and documentation that are not required to be kept are deleted or destroyed in

line with the current data protection laws and our Privacy Notice.

If Parents have a specific deletion or retention request regarding any data that we hold, please

raise a query in writing to the data protection controller (please refer to our data protection

policy for further information) and we will respond formally to your request.

This policy will be reviewed annually and amended according to any change in law/legislation.


4. E Safety Policy for Early Years Settings

Policy Statement

All early year’s settings have a duty to ensure that children are protected from potential harm

both within and beyond the learning environment. Every effort will be made to safeguard

against all risks; however, it is likely that we will never be able to eliminate them. Any incidents

that do arise will be dealt with quickly and according to policy to ensure that children and staff

continue to be protected.

Aims

To offer valuable guidance and resources to early years settings and practitioners to ensure that

they can provide a safe and secure online environment for all children in their care.

To raise awareness amongst staff and parents/carers of the potential risks associated with online

technologies, whilst also highlighting the many educational and social benefits.

To provide safeguards and rules for acceptable use to guide all users in their online experiences.

To ensure adults are clear about procedures for misuse of any technologies both within and

beyond the early years setting.

Scope of policy

This policy applies to all staff, children, parents/carers, committees, visitors and contractors

accessing the Internet or using technological devices on the premises. This includes the use of

personal devices by all the above-mentioned groups, such as mobile phones or iPads/tablets,

which are brought into an early year’s setting. This policy is also applicable where staff or

individuals have been provided with setting issued devices for use off-site, such as a work

laptop, nursery iPad or mobile phone.

Staff Responsibilities

Practitioners (including volunteers and students)

All staff have a shared responsibility to ensure that children can use the Internet and related

technologies appropriately and safely as part of the wider duty of care to which all adults

working with children are bound.

Please see Staff handbook for further details regarding staff responsibilities and expectations

for behaviour whilst accessing the internet, email or related technologies within and beyond the

early years setting.


Network Manager/Technical Staff (if applicable)

(Please note: If using an outside contractor for technical services, it is the responsibility of the

setting to ensure that the managed service provider carries out all of the safety measures listed

below that would be expected of in-house technical staff, including being provided with the

Early Years e Safety Policy and Staff AUP)

The Business Manager (Paula Gill) is responsible for ensuring that;

• The setting’s ICT infrastructure/system is secure and not open to misuse or malicious

attack.

• Anti-virus software is installed and maintained on all setting machines and portable

devices.

• Any problems or faults relating to filtering are reported to Designated Safeguarding

Lead and to the broadband provider immediately and recorded on the e Safety Incident

Log.

• Users may only access the setting’s network through a rigorously enforced password

protection policy, in which passwords are regularly changed.

• They keep up to date with e safety technical information in order to maintain the

security of the network and safeguard children.

• The use of the setting’s network is regularly monitored in order that any deliberate or

accidental misuse can be reported to the E Safety Lead/Designated Person for

Safeguarding.

Broadband and Age Appropriate Filtering

Broadband provision is essential to the running of an early years setting, not only allowing for

communication with parents and carers but also providing access to a wealth of resources and

support. Many settings now use internet enabled devices, including iPad educational apps and

games, to enhance the learning experience of children or as online tools for staff to track and

share achievement. For this reason, great care must be taken to ensure that safe and secure

internet access, appropriate for both adults and children, is made available regardless of the size

of the setting.

Before investing in a broadband connection, it is important that early years settings carefully

consider their Internet requirements and usage. Domestic lines may not be appropriate to the

needs of an early years setting, particularly with regards to the security of any data within the

network and the requirement to provide appropriate filtering for young users. It is ultimately

the responsibility of the Provider/Manager to ensure that the setting’s Internet provision is as

safe and secure as is reasonably possible.

Parental controls are established on all Internet enabled devices that children have access to,

blocking or preventing access to any harmful, illegal or inappropriate content.


Indicators of inadequate or poor practice

There is no filtering or monitoring in place

Security of passwords is ineffective (e.g. passwords are shared amongst staff and pupils or

children log-in using staff accounts)

All users (i.e. staff and children) access the same level of filtering resulting in either staff being

restricted as to what they can view, or children accessing too much.

Email Use

Staff

The setting provides all managers with access to a professional email account to use for all

work-related business, including communication with parents and carers. This allows for email

content to be monitored and protects staff from the risk of allegations, malicious emails or

inappropriate contact with children and their families.

Managers must not engage in any personal communications (i.e. via hotmail or yahoo accounts

etc.) with children who they have a professional responsibility for. This prohibits contact with

former pupils outside of authorised setting email channels also.

All emails should be professional in tone and checked carefully before sending, just as an

official letter would be.

Use of Social Networking Sites (advertising or parental contact)

Social networking sites (e.g. Facebook and Twitter) can be a useful advertising tool for early

years settings and can often be an effective way of engaging with young or hard to reach

parents. Due to the public nature of social networking and the inability to keep content truly

private, great care must be taken in the management and use of such sites.

Best practice guidance states that:

• Identifiable images of children should not be used on social networking sites without

permissions from the child’s parents/carers.

• To maintain professional distance and to avoid unwanted contact, staff should not link

their personal social networking accounts to New Beginnings or indeed parents.

• Ensure that privacy settings are set to maximum and checked regularly.

• For safeguarding purposes, photographs or videos of looked after children must not be

shared on social networking sites.


Laptops/iPads/Tablets

Staff Use:

The Business Manager maintains a log of all ICT equipment issued to staff, including serial

numbers.

Personal use of setting laptops or computing facilities, whilst on site, is left to the discretion of

the Provider/Manager and may be permissible if kept to a minimum, used outside of session

times. Please refer to the attached AUP and Social Networking Policy for further guidance.

Where staff have been issued with a device (e.g. setting laptop or iPad) for work purposes,

personal use whilst off site is not permitted unless authorised by the provider/manager. The

authorised person should use the settings laptop/devices only.

Staff are aware that all activities carried out on setting devices and systems, both within and

outside of the work environment, will be monitored in accordance with this policy.

Staff will ensure that setting laptops and devices are made available as necessary for anti-virus

updates, software installations, upgrades or routine monitoring/servicing.

Setting issued devices only should be used for this purpose and, if containing sensitive

information or photographs of children, should not leave the premises unless encrypted and this

must be acknowledged in the policy.

Please note: The Provider/Manager is ultimately responsible for the security of any data or

images held of children within the setting. It is the managers responsibility to ensure the Ipad

photos are checked at the of each month and photos which are not needed are deleted as soon

as possible. Photos which need to be kept should be stored on a nursery USB stick-January

2020 update

Children’s Use:

Laptop, iPad or tablet use must always be supervised by an adult and any games or apps used

must be from a pre-approved selection checked and will only be approved and downloaded by

a manager.

Online searching and installing/downloading of new programs and applications is restricted to

authorised managers only. Children should not be able to search or install anything on a setting

device.

Applications (Apps) for recording pupil progress

In recent years, several applications (apps) for mobile devices have been launched which are

targeted specifically at Early Years Practitioners and settings. Many of these apps allow staff

to track and share a child’s learning journey online with parents and carers, usually in the form

of photographs and text. Such tools have considerable benefits, including improved levels of

engagement with parents and a reduction in paperwork, but careful consideration must be given

to safeguarding and data security principles before using such tools.

Personal staff mobile phones or devices (e.g. iPad or iPhone) should not be used for any apps

which record and store children’s personal details, attainment or photographs. Only setting

issued devices may be used for such activities, ensuring that any devices used are appropriately

encrypted if taken off site. This is to prevent a data security breach in the event of loss or theft.

http://www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/en/councilservices/EducationandLearning/services/e-safety/Pages/Nonschoolsettings.aspx


Before purchasing or accessing any apps for staff or children’s use, Providers/Managers must

have a clear understanding of where and how children’s data will be stored, including who has

access to it and any safeguarding implications. Please note: The Provider/Manager is ultimately

responsible for the security of any data or images held of children within the setting.

Data Storage and Security

Sensitive data, photographs and videos of children are not stored on setting devices, which

leave the premises (e.g. laptops, mobile phones, iPads, USB Memory Sticks etc.) unless

encryption software is in place.

Useful links

Local Safeguarding Children Board (Essex or London)

For the Loughton setting please refer to Essex

For the Romford & Rainham setting please refer to London

Data Protection and Freedom of Information advice: www.ico.org.uk

5. Social Media

Social media is becoming a large part of the world we live in and as such at New Beginnings

Nurseries Ltd we need to ensure we protect our children by having procedures in place for

safe use.

Twitter.

We use Twitter to share pictures of the activities the children have accessed at nursery. In

order to safeguard children, we will:

• Ensure all children in the photographs or posts have the correct permissions in place

from their parent / carer

• Not allow others to post on our Twitter page, i.e. only management can post on these

pages, only parents / family / carers who have been accepted to join the group can view

and comment on these posts

• Monitor comments on all posts and address any concerns immediately.

• When the Ipad is out in the nursery play-room’s mangers will need to ensure twitter is

logged out. When managers want to post photos onto twitter they will need to log back

into the account. Only managers/senior managers will have access to the password and

must not share this information with any other members of staff-updated January

2020

Staff use of social media

We require our staff to be responsible and professional in their use of social networking sites

in relation to any connection to the nursery, nursery staff, parents or children.

When using social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat or Instagram staff

must:


• Not name the setting they work at,

• Not make comments relating to their work or post pictures in work uniform.

• Not send private messages to any parents/family members.

• If a parent asks questions relating to work via social networking sites, then staff

must NOT reply and inform their nursery manager immediately for the nursery

manager to then address this issue with the parent or carer in question.

• Ensure any posts reflect their professional role in the community (e.g. no

inappropriate social event photos or inappropriate comments i.e. foul

language).

• Report any concerning comments or questions from parents to the

manager/safeguarding lead.

• Follow the staff Code of Conduct policy.

• Not post anything that could be construed to have any impact on the nursery’s

reputation or relate to the nursery or any children attending the nursery in any

way.

• Staff can follow our Twitter and Instagram page but must ensure their accounts

privacy settings are activated before they will be accepted. If their profiles are

not set to private, then their request will not be accepted.

• They must not share any of our Twitter or Instagram posts on their personal

social networking sites.

If any of the above points are not followed than the member of staff involved will face

disciplinary action, which could result in dismissal.

Parents and visitor’s use of social networking

We promote the safety and welfare of all staff and children and therefore ask parents and

visitors not to post, publicly or privately, information about any child on social media sites

such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter. We ask all parents and visitors to follow

this policy to ensure that information about children, images and information do not fall into

the wrong hands. We would further request that comments relating to the company New

Beginnings Nurseries Ltd or any of its nurseries are not commented on negatively without

seeking to address your concerns with the nursery management in the first instance.

We ask parents not to:

• Send friend requests to any member of nursery staff.

• Screen shot or share any posts or pictures from the nursery on social media platforms

(these may contain other children in the pictures).

• Post any photographs to social media that have been supplied by the nursery with

other children in them (e.g. Christmas concert photographs or photographs from an

activity at nursery).

• Share any concerns regarding inappropriate use of social media through the official

procedures (please refer to the partnership with parent’s policy, complaints

procedures and grievance policy).

New Beginnings cannot be held responsible if parents/carers decide to post out twitter

pictures onto their individual social media platforms. We would strongly urge all our

families to refrain from using any of our Twitter pictures in this way to avoid upset and

potential safeguarding concerns.


Posting on social media platforms.

Authorised managers of each nursery setting will have the responsibility to upload onto New

Beginnings social media platforms.

What happens when staff or children leave New Beginnings?

When a staff member or child leaves New Beginnings, staff and parents/carers accounts will

be removed from our twitter followers. However, staff and children’s photos will still be

active on our twitter account during the period that consent was attained to upload photos of

staff and the children’s images on our twitter page.

Instagram

We use an open Instagram account for perspective and existing parents to view various posts,

activities, updates, videos etc. This account will not display any photos or videos of the children

who attend our settings. Authorised managers only will upload posts onto the nursery Instagram

account.

6. Acceptable use

• Nurseries digital technology resources and systems will only be used for Professional

purposes or for uses deemed ‘reasonable’ by the Managing Director.

• Password(s) will not be revealed to anyone.

• ‘Good practice’ will be followed in the creation and use of my password. If

passwords are compromised, these will be changed immediately. No one else’s

passwords will be used and if a staff member is to reveal a password to another, they

will be instructed to change this immediately this may also result in disciplinary

action.

• No un authorised individual has access to email accounts/internet/intranet/network or

other nursery/LA systems.

• All documents and data are saved, accessed and deleted in accordance with the

nursery’s network and data security and confidentiality protocols.

• No online activity will be engaged in by a member of staff that compromises their

professional responsibility.

• Approved, secure email systems only used for any nursery business.

• Only approved nursery email, or other nursery approved communication systems

with staff, parents or carers will be used regarding communicate with them on

nursery business.

• Offensive material will not be searched for, downloaded or sent.

• Any accidental access to, or receipt of inappropriate materials or filtering breach will

be reported to the appropriate designated safeguarding lead

• Any software or resources that can compromise the network or not adequately

licensed will not be downloaded.

• No work will be published or distributed that is protected by copyright.

• Devices that do not hold up to date anti-virus software will not be used. Any staff

member who has responsibility for loaned equipment must ensure the anti-virus,

firewall and other ICT defense systems are kept up to date.


• No personal digital cameras or cameras on phones will be used for taking and

transferring images of children or staff.

• The nursery-learning platform will be used in accordance with the nursery’s

protocols.

• Any private social networking sites/blogs etc. staff members create are not confused

with their professional role.

• Any computer, laptop or iPad loaned to a staff member by the nursery is provided

solely to support their professional responsibilities and the nursery will be notified of

any “significant personal use” as defined by HM Revenue & Customs.

• Nursery resources remotely accessed i.e. at home will be done so through approved

methods and follow e-security protocols to access and interact with those materials.

• Any confidential data that will be transported from one location to another is

protected by encryption and that the nursery data security protocols are followed

when using any such data at any location.

• Any data protection policy requires all information seen by a member of staff

relating to a child or another staff member held within the nursery’s information

management system, will be kept private and confidential, EXCEPT when it is

deemed necessary and required by law to disclose such information to an appropriate

authority.

• Ensure the nursery e-safety policy and procedure is embedded into teaching

• The nursery’s named designated safeguarding lead will be alerted if the behavior of a

child causes concern.

• LA systems will only be used within accordance to any corporate policies

• All internet usage/ and network usage can be logged, and this information will be

made available to a manager on request.

• It is everyone’s duty to support a whole nursery safeguarding approach and any

behavior which may be inappropriate or concerning in any way of other staff or

pupils this will be reported immediately to the designated safeguarding lead.

7.Mobile phone and electrical devices

This policy refers to all electronic devices able to take pictures, record videos, send or receive

calls and messages. This includes cameras, mobile telephones, tablets and any recording

devices including smartwatches. More and more devices are technically, capable of

connecting us to the outside world. We will adapt the policy to include all devices we deem

required to safeguard children.

Re – Fit bits: ones that receive calls and messages are not allowed in the nursery classrooms

but ones that only count steps are.

Mobile phones and other devices that accept calls, messages and video calling.

At New Beginning Nurseries Ltd we promote the safety and welfare of all children in our

care. We believe our staff should be completely attentive during their hours of working to

ensure all children in the nursery receive good quality care and education.

To ensure the safety and well-being of children we do not allow staff to use personal mobile

phones, smartwatches and/or Fitbits whist in the care of the children.

We use mobile phones supplied by the nursery to provide a means of contact in certain

circumstances, such as outings or evacuations.

This policy should be used in conjunction with our online safety policy to ensure children are

kept safe when using the nursery devices online


Staff must adhere to the following:

• Mobile phones/smartwatches/Fitbits are either turned off or on silent and not accessed

during your working hours

• Mobile phones/smartwatches/Fitbits can only be used on a designated break and then

this must be away from the children

• Mobile phones/smartwatches/Fitbits should always be stored safely in staff

lockers/office during the hours of your working day

• No personal device can be connected to the nursery WIFI unless agreed by the company

director.

• The use of nursery devices, such as tablets, iPads must only be used for nursery

purposes

• The nursery devices will not have any social media or messaging apps on them other

than the nursery’s own Twitter or Instagram account, which must only be used by

management and for nursery purposes.

• Any apps downloaded onto nursery devices must be done only by management. This

will ensure only age appropriate and safe apps will be accessible to staff or children

using them.

• Passwords / passcodes for nursery devices must not be shared or written down.

• During outings, staff will use mobile phones belonging to the nursery wherever

possible.

• Photographs must not be taken of the children on any personal phones or any other

personal information storage device. Only nursery owned devices will be used to take

photographs or film videos.

• Nursery devices will not be taken home with staff and will remain secure at the setting

when not in use. If a device is needed to be taken home due to unforeseen

circumstances, then the person taking this device home must ensure it is securely stored

and not accessed by another other individual and returned to nursery as soon as

practically possible.

Parents’ and visitors’ use of mobile phones and smartwatches

Whilst we recognise that there may be emergency situations which necessitate the use of a

mobile telephone, in order to ensure the safety and welfare of children in our care and share

information about the child’s day. However, parents and visitors are kindly asked to refrain

from using their mobile telephones whilst in the nursery or when collecting or dropping

off their children.

If you are found to be using your phone inside the nursery premises you will be asked to

finish the call or take the call outside.

We do this to ensure all children are safeguarded and the time for dropping off and picking up

is a quality handover opportunity where we can share details about your child.

Visitors are requested to leave their mobile phones or smart watches in the safety of the office

where they will be locked away safely.

Update September 2019

Parents are requested not to allow their child to wear or bring in devices that may take

photographs or record videos or voices. This includes smart watches with these capabilities,

such as Vtech. This ensures all children are safeguarded and protects their property as it may

get damaged or misplaced at the nursery.


Photographs and videos

At New Beginnings Nurseries Ltd we recognise that photographs, and video recordings play a

part in the life of the nursery. We ensure that any photographs or recordings (including

CCTV) taken of children in our nursery are only done with prior written permission from

each child’s parent and only share photos with parents in a secure manner. We obtain this

when each child is registered, and we update it on a regular basis to ensure that this

permission still stands.

We ask for individual permissions for photographs and video recordings for a range of

purposes including use in the child’s learning journey; for display purposes; for promotion

materials including our nursery website, brochure and the local press; and for security in

relation to CCTV and the different social media platforms we use. We ensure that parents

understand that where their child is also on another child’s photograph, but not as the primary

person, that may be used in another child’s learning journey.

If a parent is not happy about one or more of these uses, we will respect their wishes and find

alternative ways of recording their child’s play or learning.

Staff are not permitted to take any photographs or recordings of a child on their own

information storage devices e.g. cameras, mobiles, tablets or smartwatches and may only use

those provided by the nursery. The nursery manager will monitor all photographs and

recordings to ensure that the parents’ wishes are met, and children are safeguarded.

Photographs or videos recorded on nursery mobile devices will be transferred to the correct

storage device to ensure no images are left on these mobile devices.

Parents are not permitted to use any recording device or camera (including those on mobile

phones or smartwatches) on the nursery premises without the prior consent of the manager.

During special events, e.g. Christmas or leaving parties, staff may produce group photographs

to distribute to parents on request. In this case we will gain individual permission for each

child before the event. This will ensure all photographs taken are in line with parental choice.

We ask that photos of events such as Christmas parties are not posted on any social media

websites/areas without permission from parents of all the children included in the picture.

New Beginnings reserves the right to refuse or withdraw permission to film or take

photographs (at a specific event), from any parent/carer who does not follow these guidelines.

Unless a parent/career has requested not to use their child’s photos within the nursery

we use children’s photos at New Beginnings for the following.

Use of Children images in the nursery

Photos of children in the nursery will be used on display boards around the nursery and in the

nursery rooms.

Use of Children images for nursery publicity material

Photos of the children used on our nursery admissions pack folder.

Children’s images being used in the press i.e. when a charity walk takes place within any

setting a member of the local newspaper comes down to advertise our fundraising for us in

their paper.


Use of Children’s images for the nursery website

Photos of the children on our nursery website-However before a child’s photo is used on our

website the parent will be informed and we will ensure consent is gained for us to use the

image.

Use of Children’s images for the nursery twitter page

Our twitter page is locked and can only be viewed by parents/carers of the nurseries settings

they will be accepted to follow us after they have been checked and verified by the nursery

manager. Photo’s published on our twitter page are of images of the children taking part in

many different activities and experiences within the setting.

However, we cannot be held responsible for parents/carers taking screen shots of a photo

from twitter and posting the image on their social media platform.

Video footage of Children.

At New Beginnings there may be times were the children are filmed using the nursery iPad

and only with parent consent. This footage may be used as evidence for your child’s learning

and development journals and to reassure parents whose children may be slightly unsettled or

upset when coming into nursery.

CCTV Footage.

CCTV is in use on the nursery premises and will sometimes capture images of the children.

Images captured on the nurseries CCTV system are used in accordance with the Nurseries

Data Protection Policy and will not leave the nursery premises unless required to by law.

Storing of images

All images in the nursery settings are stored on each individual nursery iPad which is backed

up to the nurseries iCloud also stored on hard drives on the office computers which are

password protected and have secure anti-virus system installed. Images of children will be

removed immediately when a child is no longer registered at the setting except for

parents/carers consent for their child’s photo to remain on New Beginnings website.

Applicable for settings using Online Learning Journals only

At New Beginnings Nurseries Ltd we use iPads in the rooms to take photos of the children for

their Learning journeys, the nursey twitter account or the children’s leavers books. We ensure

that these devices are used for this purpose only and do not install applications such as social

media or messaging sites on to these devices.

We also do routine checks to ensure that emails and text messages (where applicable) have

not been sent from these devices and remind staff of the whistleblowing policy if they

observe staff not following these safeguarding procedures.

Use of iPads within the setting

New Beginnings Day Nursery are committed to using educational technology to improve

further the learning experiences and achievements for all our children. iPad technology

provides us with opportunities to inspire and motivate our young people to achieve their full


potential and engage them fully in their learning. We believe that the use of an iPad will

enhance everyday learning and teaching.

We approve the use of an authorised Apple iPad in a manner consistent with the established

learning and teaching at New Beginnings Day Nursery and we recognise and encourage the

use of the iPad at nursery and at home to promote learning.

This policy applies to all users of iPad hardware and software technology at New Beginnings

Day Nursery. It applies to all iPads used by our staff and children, wherever they are

physically located - within the nursery. It is intended to compliment the nurseries wider E

Safety policy. Due to the changeable nature of information and communications technology

this policy will undergo periodic review and as such the nursery reserves the right to amend

any sections or wording at any time. The following details define the proper use of the device

during and outside of nursery hours.

TAKING CARE OF IPADS

Staff are responsible for the general care of the iPad. iPads that are broken or fail to work

must be reported immediately to a member of management.

General Precautions

• iPads must never be left unattended or in any unsupervised area.

• iPads must be returned to the office at the end of everyday signed back in and locked

in the filing cabinet. Under no circumstances should iPads be left within any room

after the nursery is closed.

• Protective cases provided must always be kept on the iPads.

• Staff who have an allocated iPad should not lend or share their allocated iPad with a

third party under any circumstances

• Staff are not permitted to use their own personal iPad within the nursery rooms

• Permitted iPads are only those supplied by New Beginnings.

PASSWORDS AND APPLE ID

To access a nursery iPad, they will all be supplied with a passcode. Staff are prohibited from

removing the password or to share this password with anyone else.

Each iPad will be set up to their own Apple ID that will have been created by senior

managers.

Staff assigned Apple ID’s should not be used on other personal or home Apple devices and

are for use only on nursery iPads only.

PHOTOGRAPHS AND IMAGES (STILL AND MOVING)

Photographs/Images stored on the iPad will be in accordance with the nurseries mobile phone

and device policy and procedure. The nursery reserves the right to carry out random checks

on any iPad for unsuitable content.

No images or video material taken in nursery may be uploaded from any device to social

networking sites unless the social networking sites are those of New Beginnings.

Images uploaded onto social networking sites such as our Twitter and Instagram will be done

so by an authorised manager.


DOWNLOADING APPS

Apps stored on iPads will only be downloaded by an authorised manager.

Please see below apps which have management authorisation to be on the nursery iPads.

Under no circumstances should any other apps be downloaded unless requested and given

authorisation by a member of the management team.

• Twitter

• Tesco

• Pinterest

• Find iPhone

• Instagram (quality managers only)

• Photo collage

INTERNET ACCESS

Staff may only access the internet through “nursery provider’ access.

Staff are not permitted to access the internet via their own mobile connection 3G/4G

functionality (or otherwise/ personal hot spotting) as this is unmonitored and unfiltered access

and within the nursery staff room. New Beginnings is not responsible for any material

accessed by a staff member in this manner.

INSPECTION

Mangers iPad’s may be selected at random to provide their iPad for inspection by a senior

manager at any time.

STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES

We expect our staff to:

• Use the iPad in the classroom to enhance the teaching and learning experiences for

the children.

• Follow relevant policies and procedures.

• To be role models, display good practice and provide leadership in the use of these

devices.

• Use Apple iPads in a responsible and ethical manner.

• Turn off and secure their iPad after they are finished.

• Managers must ensure “Find my iPad” is always enabled to aid recovery of lost or

stolen devices

• Managers are to check the iPads daily and ensure any photos are deleted that are no

longer needed. Photos that need to be kept must be stored on the nursery’s memory

stick at the end of each week.

• Senior managers will be responsible for bringing in the iPads every 4 weeks for an

audit

Use of Children’s iPad’s in the setting-added January 2020

Children’s iPads will follow the same procedure as nursery iPads to be signed in/out

each time they are used by the staff member and manager. Staff to ensure they explain

the iPads rules to the children before using the iPad and understanding turn taking of

the iPads by ensuring the sand timer is used each time the nursery iPad’s are in use.


Photos must not be taken on the children’s iPad and restrictions are enabled to ensure

children only have access to educational apps. Staff must ensure that the use of

children’s iPads is planned for throughout the week.

8. Useful information and contacts.

Childnet: Storybooks for early years.

Smartie the Penguin

Digiduck Stories

https://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers/keeping-young-children-safe-online/

Thinkuknow:

Resources for early years and KS1 pupils from NCA-CEOP

The UK Safer Internet Centre Helpline for Professionals

Contact Number: 0344 381 4772*

[email protected]

NSPCC

Contact Number: tel:0808 8005000 https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-

safety/

https://www.childnet.com/resources/smartie-the-penguin

https://www.childnet.com/resources/digiduck-stories

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/professionals/resources

mailto:[email protected]

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