PUPILS at a Hampshire school were treated to a visit from Google and Eastleigh MP Mims Davies to discuss online safety.

Children at Shamblehurst Primary School, Wildern Lane, in Hedge End were taught five key lessons through the Be Internet Legends programme - launched by Google.

These were to think before they shared, check what they see on social media is true as well as ways to boost their internet security. They also learnt why they should respect each other online and, when in doubt, they should talk to someone about online safety.

The Be Internet Legends programme has reached over a million children across the UK and is aimed at seven to 11-year-olds to help them confidently explore the internet. Face-to-face workshops and free training resources are offered to over 19,000 UK teachers as part of the programme.

Children also learnt how to avoid hackers, phishers and bullies.

Mims said: “At a time when children, including my own, are growing up in a digital world unlike any generation before them, there is no doubt that the vast majority are much ‘techier’ than their parents and guardians – and that includes me.

“Nevertheless, it is more important than ever before that our young people learn how to stay safe online.

“That is why as a parent, as a local MP and as a Minister at DCMS, I welcome the work that - through their support for schools like Shamblehurst - Google are doing to make sure that our young people have the skills they need to stay safe online.”

Public policy manager at Google UK, Rosie Luff, said: “We are delighted to visit Shamblehurst Primary School today to help teach children about how to Be Internet Legends.

“By getting acquainted with what we believe are the five core areas of online safety, we want to prepare children to have a safe and positive experience online.”

In 2017, Google conducted research with more than 200 teachers to learn about their experience with online safety in the classroom. They found teachers believe children should start learning about online safety as early as the age of seven.

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