As we begin a new year, many families have welcomed new devices into their homes after Christmas; phones, tablets, gaming consoles and other technology that can access the internet. While these tools offer great opportunities for learning and fun, they also bring risks if not used safely.
At Waringstown Primary School, we work diligently every day to ensure our pupils are protected and learn how to use the internet responsibly. However online safety starts at home too. Parents play a vital role in guiding children and setting boundaries.
Why Talk About Online Safety?
Children aged 4–11 are curious and eager to explore. Having open conversations about what they do online helps them feel supported and confident to ask for help if something goes wrong.
Start with simple questions:
- What apps or games do they enjoy most?
- Do they know what to do if someone they don’t know messages them?
- How can they make sure their time online is safe and fun?
Three Steps for Safer Internet Use:
-
Set Parental Controls
Use built-in tools on devices and apps to block inappropriate content and manage screen time.
Scan the QR code below for guidance from https://www.internetmatters.org. -
Choose Safe Websites & Apps
Stick to age-appropriate platforms and explore them together before use.
Scan the QR code below for tips from https://www.bbc.com/ownit. -
Talk Together
Agree on family rules for screen time, sharing photos and what to do if something feels wrong.
Scan the QR code below for resources from https://www.saferinternet.org.uk.
As we return for Term 2, we are delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements our pupils have made over the Christmas period. From personal milestones to acts of kindness in the community, our pupils have shown resilience, creativity and a spirit of determination that inspires us all.
In preparation for our World Around Us topic, "Life in the Recent Past," which includes the war years, P4 made a visit to the Palace Stables in Armagh for the day steeped in the 1940's! We started off with an interactive discussion about how WW2 actually started which was very informative.
The classes were separated and went to different activities; One was an interactive information session looking at the contents of an evacuee's suitcase and learning about what life was like in homes during the war as well as looking at gas masks for babies and children.
Another station was into a 1940's school room - very different to our own where children were "seen and not heard." Here we made our identity cards and personal labels which would have been with us at all times on our evacuation.
We also met "Sergeant Balton," the GI soldier from Texas. He told us what his job was like and how he ended up in Northern Ireland. He also helped us to decode some secret messages.
In another room, we met the evacuation officer, Mr Heaney. He told us all about how and why evacuation took place. He also told us about the importance of "black outs" for homes and air raid shelters to keep us safe from German bombs. We even visited an air raid shelter in the grounds of the Palace Stables. He made some of us wardens, who kept the rest of the class in order.
We enjoyed a picnic lunch before heading back to school.
This day has really made us excited for all that we will be studying in World Around Us! While it was great fun we are all glad however, that we live in 2026 and not 1940!
Click on the link below to see pictures of our trip.
We had a wonderful morning with the tutors from the EA Music service. We learned about the different instruments in the orchestra and sang lots of Christmas songs. Some of the children helped with the percussion and Mr Gault even had a go at conducting! A fun-filled morning that was enjoyed by all the children and staff. A huge thank you to the EA Music service. Merry Christmas!
Waringstown PS 2025 / 26 Open Afternoon
Click the READ MORE link below to view the video:
