Schools play an important role in helping pupils navigate the digital world safely. With technology always in classrooms and daily life, keeping pupils protected online is an ever-evolving challenge. From managing social media use to responding to emerging tech risks, digital safeguarding is more complex than ever — and it’s essential for educators to stay one step ahead.

Here are five of the biggest challenges facing schools today:

1. Understanding Digital Footprints

Pupils are sharing more online than ever before — often without realising how long that information will stay on the internet. Helping them understand the impact of their digital actions is key, but keeping up with constantly changing platforms and privacy settings isn’t easy.

2. Exposure to Inappropriate or Harmful Content

Even with filters and monitoring systems in place, pupils can still encounter material that’s unsuitable or upsetting. New platforms, trends and algorithms evolve quickly, making it difficult for schools to predict where risks might appear next.

3. Online Behaviour and Cyberbullying

The boundaries between school life and online life are blurred. Social media, messaging apps and online games can create new spaces for bullying or peer pressure — often outside of school hours, but with real-world consequences.

4. Digital Wellbeing and Mental Health

Constant connectivity can take its toll. From screen fatigue to social comparison, schools are seeing the effects of the online world on pupils’ wellbeing. Supporting digital balance and resilience is an increasing part of the safeguarding picture.

5. Keeping Up with Emerging Technologies

Artificial intelligence, virtual reality and new anonymous platforms are developing faster than safeguarding policies can adapt. Schools need to stay informed — but finding reliable, up-to-date guidance can be a challenge.

Join Our Free Online Event: Mastering Digital Safeguarding

These challenges are just the beginning. Join EE’s upcoming online event to hear from safeguarding experts, education specialists and digital safety leaders as they explore how schools can respond to the next wave of online risks — and support pupils to thrive safely in a connected world. This is on the 12th of November 4pm BST.

“Together, we can create a safer digital future for every learner.”

Register Now!