Lesson Overview
| Duration | 50-60 minutes |
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| Key Stage | KS3 (Years 7-9) |
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| Subject Links | PSHE, Computing, Citizenship |
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| Resources Needed | Pupil handouts, Quiz sheets, Presentation slides, Whiteboard |
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Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:
- Identify common online risks and threats to personal safety
- Understand the importance of protecting personal information online
- Recognise signs of potentially dangerous online interactions
- Know how to report concerns and where to seek help
- Apply practical strategies to stay safe when using the internet
Curriculum Links
PSHE Association: Health & Wellbeing, Relationships, Living in the Wider World
Computing: E-safety, Digital Literacy
Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023): Online Safety
Lesson Plan
5 mins Starter Activity
Quick poll: "How many hours did you spend online yesterday?" Discuss as a class the range of activities (social media, gaming, homework, streaming). Lead into: "With all this time online, how do we stay safe?"
10 mins Input: The Digital Footprint
Explain that everything we do online leaves a trace. Use slides to cover:
- What is a digital footprint?
- Passive vs. active footprints
- How information can be found and used by others
- Real examples of digital footprints affecting futures (university, jobs)
15 mins Activity 1: Risk Recognition
In pairs, pupils complete the "Spot the Risk" activity on their handout. They identify potential dangers in sample social media profiles and messages. Discuss answers as a class.
10 mins Input: Protecting Yourself Online
Cover the key safety strategies:
- Privacy settings - How to check and update them
- Strong passwords - The three random words method
- Think before you share - The "billboard test"
- Stranger danger online - People aren't always who they claim
- Trusted adults - Who to talk to if worried
10 mins Activity 2: Scenario Discussion
Groups discuss scenarios from the handout and decide the best course of action. Each group shares their reasoning with the class.
5 mins Plenary & Quiz Introduction
Recap key messages. Distribute quiz for assessment (can be completed in class or as homework).
Key Messages for Pupils
- Your online actions have real-world consequences
- Never share personal information with strangers online
- If something feels wrong, it probably is - trust your instincts
- It's never too late to talk to a trusted adult about online concerns
- You won't get in trouble for reporting something worrying
Discussion Questions
- Why might someone create a fake online identity?
- What information should you never share online, even with friends?
- How can you tell if an online "friend" might not be who they say they are?
- What would you do if someone online asked to meet you in person?
- Why is it important to talk to adults about your online experiences?
⚠️ Safeguarding Considerations
Before delivering this lesson:
- Be aware this topic may prompt disclosures from pupils with concerning online experiences
- Review your school's safeguarding policy and know your Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Have support information readily available (Childline, CEOP, school counsellor)
- Create a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere for discussion
- Avoid asking pupils to share personal online experiences publicly
If a pupil discloses:
- Listen without judgment
- Don't promise confidentiality - explain you may need to share to keep them safe
- Report to your DSL immediately following school procedures
- Record the disclosure accurately using the pupil's words
Differentiation
| Support |
Pair weaker readers with stronger peers; provide word bank; use visual scenarios; allow verbal responses |
| Core |
Complete all activities as designed; written responses to scenarios |
| Extension |
Research and present on a specific online risk; create safety advice for younger pupils; design an awareness poster |
Assessment Opportunities
- Observation of group discussions
- Quality of scenario responses on handout
- Quiz scores (summative)
- Pupil questions and contributions
Support Resources
| Organisation | Contact | Purpose |
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| Childline | 0800 1111 | Free, confidential support for young people |
| CEOP | ceop.police.uk/report | Report online abuse |
| Internet Watch Foundation | iwf.org.uk | Report illegal content |
| UK Safer Internet Centre | saferinternet.org.uk | Resources and advice |