Safer Internet Day was a great success this year in Holy Cross Mercy, with every class taking part in important activities that helped our pupils learn how to stay safe, responsible, and confident online. The school was full of interest and discussion as children explored how to enjoy the internet while making sensible choices and protecting themselves.
This year’s theme, AI Aware: Safe, Smart and in Control, guided the learning across the school. Pupils explored how new technologies, including artificial intelligence, can be helpful when used wisely, and why it is important to stay in control of what they share and how they behave online.
Throughout the day, pupils took part in lessons, conversations, videos, and practical tasks that focused on keeping personal information private, recognising unsafe situations, treating others with respect online, and knowing when to speak to a trusted adult. Teachers were delighted with the thoughtful questions and the mature way pupils approached each activity.
Many classes created posters, completed quizzes, and discussed real-life examples that helped them understand how to build good digital habits. Webwise resources were used throughout the school to support the learning and to help pupils think carefully about their online choices.
Every pupil received a Safer Internet Day wristband to mark the occasion. These wristbands were worn proudly and served as a reminder to stay safe, stay smart, and stay kind online.
We would also like to say a sincere thank you to Mrs. Counihan for organising this important day and ensuring that all pupils had the opportunity to learn these essential skills.
We were also delighted to welcome our local Community Garda, who spoke with our Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Class pupils about the importance of staying safe online. The pupils learned valuable lessons about responsible internet use, protecting their personal information, recognising potential risks, and knowing what to do if something doesn’t feel right. The talk also highlighted the importance of kindness and respect when communicating.
Safer Internet Day was a meaningful and empowering experience for all pupils, helping them build the confidence and awareness they need to navigate the online world safely.
