Gosforth Out of School Clubs accepts that mobile technology is part of the ever changing digital environment that we live and work in. Gosforth Out of School Clubs continues to foster a ‘culture of safety’ in which the children and staff are protected from abuse, harm, and distress. We therefore have a clear policy on the acceptable use of mobile phones and other wearable technology that is understood and adhered to by everyone; staff, children and parents.
Abiding by the terms of the club’s policy ensures that we all:
- Protect children from harm and abuse
- Ensure privacy is respected and online safety is preserved
- Prevent staff from being subject to false allegations
- Help staff remain focused on the care of children
- Work in an open and transparent environment.
With the evolution of mobile phones, tablet computers and wearable technology that have camera facilities and sharing capabilities as standard, it is of the upmost importance that the way we deal with mobile phones and wearable technology is managed safely.
Staff use of mobile phones and wearable technology
Personal mobile phones belonging to members of staff should be switched off and kept in the lockable filing cabinet during working hours.
Only tablet computers that are owned and maintained by Gosforth Out of School Clubs are permitted t be used on site.
Wearable technology such as Smartwatches and Fitbits (this list is not exhaustive) are permitted to be worn by staff. They may only used as a watch when working with children. This means that all other functions including imaging and sharing capabilities must be disabled (using flight mode).
If a member of staff needs to make an urgent personal call they can use the club phone or make a personal call from their mobile in the kitchen or staffroom.
If a member of staff has a family emergency or similar and needs to keep their mobile phone to hand, prior permission must be sought from the Manager or Deputy.
Under no circumstances may staff use their personal mobile phones or wearable technology to take photographs at the club during working hours.
Children’s use of mobile phones
Whilst we understand that some children have mobile phones, tablet computers and wearable technology such as smart phones use of these is not permitted in the club. Children must not use their own technology to take photographs of any kind whilst at the club. If they want a photograph of a particular activity they can ask a member of staff to take one using the club camera.
The club does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to mobile phones brought to the club by the children.
Visitors’ use of mobile phones
In the interest of safeguarding we ask all parents and visitors not to use their phones or other mobile devices on club premises. Taking of photographs by parents or visitors is strictly prohibited. If a parent would like to have a photograph of their child involved in an activity or at play, they can ask a member of staff to take one using the club camera.
Guidance
To safeguard children and practitioners online, our staff will be encouraged to refer to
“Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations”. (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-children-and- protecting-professionals-in-early-years-settings-online-safety-considerations)
Related policies
See also: Safeguarding Children policy
Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2024): Safeguarding and Welfare requirements: Safeguarding policies and procedures [3.7]