Barring web fails to teach lesson in online safety

Ofsted said "locked down" systems that barred access to websites were "less effective" overall in keeping children safe.

A report found the approach did not teach youngsters how to use the internet "responsibly".

"Although the 13 schools which used 'locked down' systems kept their pupils safe while in school, such systems were less effective in helping them to learn how to use new technologies safely," the report said.

"These pupils were, therefore, more vulnerable overall."

The report said "managed" systems, which restricted access to some websites, were better in educating children. It recommended the approach be replicated in other schools to provide "richer learning experiences".

"Children who hold a parent's hand every time they cross the road are safe. However, unless they are taught to cross the road by themselves, they might not learn to do this independently," the report said.

"A child whose use of the internet is closely monitored at school will not necessarily develop the level of understanding required to use new technologies responsibly in other contexts."

The report, which examined online safety at 35 schools, was launched following the Byron Review into risks associated with the internet. It found "e-safety" was outstanding in five of the schools, good in 16, satisfactory in 13 and inadequate in one. In 21 of the schools visited, training given to staff was found to be in need of improvement.

In one of the schools visited, pupils relied on their friends, siblings and family for advice on using the internet.

And some youngsters were better informed on the subject than their parents.