New technologies have become integral to the lives of children and young people in today’s society, both within schools and in their lives outside school. The internet and other digital information and communications technologies are powerful tools, which open up new opportunities for everyone. These technologies can stimulate discussion, promote creativity and stimulate awareness of context to promote effective learning. Young people should have an entitlement to safe internet access at all times.

This Acceptable Use Policy is intended to ensure:

• that young people will be responsible users and stay safe whilst using the internet and other communications technologies for educational, personal and recreational use.
• that school ICT systems and users are protected from accidental or deliberate misuse that could put the security of the systems and users at risk.
• that parents and carers are aware of the importance of e-safety and are involved in the education and guidance of young people with regard to their on-line behaviour.

Manchester Health Academy will try to ensure that students will have good access to ICT to enhance their learning and will, in return, expect the students to agree to be responsible users. A copy of the Student Acceptable Use Policy is attached to this permission form, so that parents / carers will be aware of the school expectations of the young people in their care.

Parents are requested to sign the permission form below to show their support to the Academy in this important aspect of the Academy’s work.