Being online is a big part of everyday life. Social media, gaming, messaging apps and video platforms can help us learn, stay connected with friends and enjoy our interests. However, it is important to find a healthy balance between time spent online and time spent offline.

At our school, we encourage students to think about their digital wellbeing and how their online activities make them feel. If screen time or social media starts to have a negative impact on your health, sleep, relationships or mood, support is available.

How do I know if social media or screen time is affecting me?

It may be time to review your screen use if you notice any of the following:

  • Struggling to switch off from your phone, games or social media.
  • Feeling stressed, anxious, upset or overwhelmed after being online.
  • Comparing yourself to others on social media and feeling less confident.
  • Missing out on hobbies, exercise, family time or seeing friends in person.
  • Staying up late online and feeling tired the next day.
  • Experiencing headaches, tired eyes or difficulty concentrating.
  • Feeling worried about online interactions, comments or messages.

Tips for building healthy online habits

Create balance

Try to make time each day for activities away from screens, such as sport, reading, creative hobbies, spending time outdoors or meeting friends and family. A healthy balance between online and offline activities supports both physical and mental wellbeing.

Take regular breaks

Many apps, games and social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged through notifications, autoplay and endless scrolling. Taking regular breaks can help you stay in control of your screen use.

Protect your sleep

Try to avoid using devices immediately before bed and create a healthy bedtime routine. Good quality sleep is essential for learning, concentration and emotional wellbeing.

Think about how content makes you feel

If a particular account, app or online activity regularly leaves you feeling unhappy, anxious or stressed, consider limiting your use of it or taking a break altogether.

Be kind online

Treat others with respect and report harmful behaviour. Cyberbullying can have a serious impact on wellbeing and should never be ignored.

What should I do if I'm worried?

You do not have to deal with online worries on your own.

If social media, gaming or screen time is affecting your wellbeing:

  • Talk to a trusted adult as soon as possible.
  • Speak to your Form Tutor, Head of Year, Pastoral Team or Safeguarding Team.
  • If you are experiencing cyberbullying, save evidence where appropriate, block the user and report the behaviour through the platform.
  • Take a break from the activity or platform that is causing concern.
  • Seek support from friends, family members or school staff.

Support available in school

We are committed to supporting students' wellbeing both online and offline. Students can speak to:

  • Their Form Tutor
  • Head of Year
  • Pastoral Team

Any concerns will be listened to sensitively and support will be provided to help students stay safe and healthy online.

Useful sources of support

  • Childline: www.childline.org.uk
  • YoungMinds: www.youngminds.org.uk
  • CEOP Safety Centre: www.ceop.police.uk
  • Internet Matters: www.internetmatters.org
  • NHS Every Mind Matters: www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters