PEOPLE are being asked to play their part for a better internet as part of Safer Internet Day 2016.

The internationally recognised event aims to educate children and young people about how to stay safe online.

St Francis Church of England Aided Junior School, in Newton Aycliffe, was judged to be outstanding in a recent review of online safety and today (February 9) opens its doors to parents and carers.

Jane Wilkinson, the school’s headteacher, said: “Here in St Francis E-safety is an integral part of all areas of school life.

“Over the past three years we have purchased Playbooks, Kindle Fire and Kobo readers so that children can be shown, in a safe environment, how to be responsible when using these devices.

“It’s really important children know the potential dangers, but most of all safety measures they can take to ensure their safety. We’re always alert to the fact that, although the internet is a fantastic tool and resource for both teaching and learning, we’ll always need to be mindful that there are dangers of using the World Wide Web too.”

Activities and presentations for parents and pupils will take place throughout the day.

The independent chair of the Durham local safeguarding children board, Jane Geraghty, said: “Children can access the internet and social media so easily these days that there is always a potential risk of them being involved in the dangers posed by the internet.

“By being involved in their child’s online activity, parents and carers can encourage their children to use the internet positively and help them avoid getting involved with strangers online or cyber bullying."

For more information about Safer Internet Day and tips on how to keep your children safe online www.saferinternet.org.uk/safer-internet-day/2016