Darlington and Durham's Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has relaunched a cyber safety project to protect children from online risks.
The Platinum Commissioner's Challenge, which was previously launched at Ferryhill School, is part of a wider initiative to enhance cyber safety education for young people in County Durham and Darlington.
This programme focuses on Year Seven students, engaging them in activities that highlight the risks of online harm.
As part of the scheme, students complete modules in a booklet, with the option to work on some exercises with their parents or guardians.
This involvement helps parents stay informed about online safety risks and promotes open discussions at home.
Upon finishing the six-module booklet, students are honoured in a ceremony for completing the programme successfully.
PCC Joy Allen said: "I am excited for the return of the Platinum Commissioner's Challenge. With the huge advances in digital technology and the growing amount of time young people spend online, the need for lively and engaging cyber safety education has never been more important.
"The initial project was a resounding success and both parents and pupils appreciated the valuable insight and practical skills shared.
"The project has the additional benefit of developing the young people's leadership skills and confidence, as well as their resilience and critical thinking, and so it really is a win-win for all involved.
"I often speak to parents who are worried about the dangers their children face on the internet. Many feel powerless to protect them.
"This is primarily why the Platinum Commissioner's Challenge was developed as a family experience where everyone, including any siblings, has an opportunity to benefit from the learning provided and caregivers can more easily initiate conversations about online usage with their children.
"These conversations can prevent serious harm and encourage children to be honest about their future experiences online.
"Internet safety is an issue for both children and adults, and one we must tackle together. I will be monitoring the success of this project closely with a view to expanding its reach in the future to enable children across the county to benefit."
The booklet was developed by Jack Gooday, a fourth-year cyber security student, with oversight from the North East Business Resilience Centre (NEBRC).
The NEBRC is also partnering with the PCC to offer subsidized cybersecurity services to schools across the county.
The program builds on the success of a similar challenge aimed at primary schools. That initiative, created by community organization Approach Too, involved young children in activities to promote safety and crime prevention skills, such as road safety and property marking.
The PCC plans to monitor the success of the Platinum Commissioner’s Challenge closely, with potential for expanding the program countywide to reach more children in the future.
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