Mobile Phone & Technology Policy

Golden Rose Sewing School accepts that mobile technology is part of the ever changing digital environment that we live and work in. Golden Rose Sewing School 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, tablet computers and wearable technology that have imaging and sharing capabilities, 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 technology is managed safely.

Staff use of mobile phones, tablet computers and wearable technology

Personal mobile phones belonging to members of staff should be switched off and kept in kitchen during working hours.

Only tablet computers that are owned and maintained by Golden Rose Sewing School are permitted for use on site. These devices are configured with appropriate safeguards, including restricted access to image-sharing platforms, secure cloud storage, and password protection.

The image-taking capabilities of these tablets may only be used under specific conditions. Staff must have prior parental consent before capturing any student images. Images may only be taken for curriculum documentation or promotional materials that have been approved by the Director. Under no circumstances may images be used for personal purposes or shared externally.

Wearable technology such as smart watches must not be used for messaging, photography, or internet access during teaching hours.

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 outside.

If a member of staff has a family emergency or similar and needs to keep their mobile phone to hand.

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

We recognize that mobile phones and technology are a part of children’s lives and culture and we allow children to have their mobile phones, tablet computers and wearable technology with them in setting. We have a set of boundaries for their use which children adhere to including the taking of pictures and sharing of data and images by children.

The club does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to mobile phones brought to the club by the children.

Children must not use their mobile phone 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.

Visitors’ and parents 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.