Online grooming is a growing and deeply concerning threat, with thousands of offences recorded each year in the UK. This edition explores how offenders build trust with children through fake identities, flattery, gifts and group chats before exploiting that relationship. It also examines the rise of sextortion and how gaming platforms and social media can become gateways for harm.
Beyond sexual exploitation, the guide highlights criminal grooming and radicalisation, helping adults recognise that manipulation can take many forms. With practical advice on spotting warning signs, creating open conversations and understanding the platforms children use, this resource empowers parents and educators to intervene early and keep young people safer online.
Neurodivergent children are often drawn to technology, so early, supported experiences online are key. This guide explores how adults can model positive digital behaviour, set age-appropriate limits and create open, judgement-free conversations about online safety. It also highlights the importance of balancing screen use with offline activities to support wellbeing and development.
It also unpacks emerging challenges, including AI-generated content and the blurred lines between real and simulated interactions. With clear, practical advice on boundaries, critical thinking and safe communication, this guide helps educators and families build confidence in supporting neurodivergent children to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
We’re excited to share that the March edition of our Careers Newsletter is now available!
This month’s theme, “Navigating Your Future,” is packed with useful insights, guidance, and opportunities to help students take their next steps with confidence.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
- Highlights from National Careers Week
- A look at World of Work Day
- Support with last-minute work experience placements
- Helpful advice for students leaving secondary school (Y11 & Y13)
- Guidance on travel planning for apprenticeships
- Updates on what’s been happening at Dukes
Whether you’re exploring career options, preparing for the future, or looking for practical tips, there’s something here for everyone.
Check out the full newsletter now and stay informed about all things careers!
Violent clips, online ‘wars’, and shock-value challenges can spread rapidly across social media feeds – often appearing in front of young people who weren’t actively looking for them. This guide explains how algorithms, messaging groups and viral trends can expose children to real-world violence online, sometimes normalising harmful behaviour or encouraging risky offline actions.
It also highlights the emotional, social and legal risks linked to engaging with violent content. From anxiety and community fear to the dangers of sharing or promoting violent posts, the guide offers practical advice for parents and educators on discussing online safety, understanding the law, and helping young people respond positively and responsibly.
With reading for pleasure in decline, this practical guide offers ten thoughtful ways to reignite children’s enthusiasm for books. From valuing all forms of reading to broadening access to diverse materials, it explores how adults can nurture positive reading habits both at home and in school. Digital tools, audiobooks and augmented reality are also considered as engaging ways to support today’s readers.
It also highlights the power of social connection – recommending books, reading together and meeting authors – alongside the importance of modelling reading ourselves. With expert insight from literacy specialist Carl Pattison, this edition provides supportive, achievable ideas to help young people reconnect with reading and see it as a meaningful part of everyday life.
Due to the disruption this week please see the updated Ks3 Progress Tests timetable.
Adult animated content is increasingly visible on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok and streaming services. While the bright visuals and cartoon style may seem harmless at first glance, many of these shows and clips are created specifically for mature audiences, featuring strong language, sexual references, graphic violence and unsettling themes.
This #WakeUpWednesday guide helps parents and educators understand the risks, from misleading visuals and algorithm-driven recommendations to desensitisation and edgy humour. It also offers practical advice on platform settings, open conversations and building children’s critical thinking, so young people can navigate online animation safely and confidently.
