RRSWGfL congratulates Stroud High School on receiving the Online Safety Mark for the fifth time. They first received the award in March 2011and were only the 10th school in the UK to receive this prestigious award.
The Online Safety Mark is awarded to schools that can demonstrate that online safety is embedded across leadership, safeguarding, teaching and learning, technical provision and the wider life of the school.
Over the last 15 years they have consistently shown that their online safety practice has been of the highest standard. In reviewing their latest application, Lead Assessor, Ron Richards, commented:
It is clear from the submission that the online safety practice is very mature and embedded, with effective practice and a sustainable and future-focused approach. As this is the school’s fifth assessment and looking back over previous reports, it is clear that as the school suggested: “Development has not been about significant change, but rather about ensuring that established systems remain current, responsive and aligned with emerging risks and expectations”.
The Online Safety Lead, Jo Harrison outlined how the school’s provision has developed and how the 360 safe online safety self-review tool and the Online Safety Mark applications have supported the school in developing its excellent provision:
''As Stroud High School transitions to a device-per-student provision, online safety is recognised as a critical "Golden Thread" because technology now integrates into almost every aspect of a student's education, both at school and at home. Maintaining a safe and productive digital environment is essential to ensure that devices remain focused on purposeful learning rather than distractions or inappropriate content.
A cornerstone of this commitment is the school’s achievement of the Online Safety Mark award, an important accreditation that formally recognises the school’s high standards in online safety and its proactive approach to protecting the community.
The 360 safe online safety review tool has been instrumental in helping us evaluate our provision, identify strengths, and pinpoint areas for development. The structured framework has provided clear guidance, enabling us to take a strategic approach to online safety rather than viewing it as a standalone initiative. It has supported us in reviewing policies, strengthening staff training, enhancing curriculum delivery, and improving engagement with families.
Achieving the award has been a valuable milestone in our online safety journey. The process has helped validate the work already taking place across the school while encouraging continuous improvement. As a result, we have greater confidence that our online safety provision is robust, up to date, and effective in meeting the needs of our school community. Most importantly, it has contributed to creating a safer digital environment where pupils are better equipped to make informed and responsible choices online.
Ultimately, online safety provides the necessary foundation for teaching digital literacy and resilience, empowering students to evaluate information, manage risks, and use technology responsibly for their own well-being.''
