Manx Telecom is to take an online safety roadshow to primary schools across the Isle of Man this autumn, with Year 6 pupils set to receive expert-led sessions on staying safe online.

The local network provider has coordinated the programme with schools across the island and has brought in UK children’s online safety charity Childnet to deliver the sessions.

The initiative, which is being offered to primary schools that have opted in, will take place in late September, and is aimed at pupils in their final year of primary school as they prepare for the increased independence that comes with moving to secondary school.

Manx Telecom said research from Ofcom shows children’s online activity increases sharply as they move from primary to secondary education.

The sessions will focus on helping pupils develop the skills and confidence to think critically about what they encounter online, stay safe and know where to turn for help.

Manx Telecom’s community van, Bluey, will also join the roadshow as it travels between schools.

Alongside the school visits, Manx Telecom will hold dedicated online safety sessions for parents at its headquarters in Braddan.

Gary Lamb, chief executive officer at Manx Telecom, said: ‘We take our responsibility as the island’s leading telecommunications provider seriously.

‘We’re proud to keep people connected, but we accept that connection comes with responsibility, especially where children are concerned. Keeping young people safe online isn’t a job for parents alone, schools alone, or companies like ours alone; it works when everyone plays their part.’

Amy Lockwood, deputy CEO and education manager at Childnet, added: ‘Year 6 is a brilliant age to have these conversations.

‘Our sessions cover the things children are actually dealing with: keeping personal information private, being kind online and dealing with unkindness, thinking critically about what they see, understanding that people online aren’t always who they say they are, and knowing exactly who to tell when something doesn’t feel right.’