‘Digi-skills’ for pupils to stop online bullying

scotLaND’s leading anti-bullying charity has said children must be taught ‘digi-literacy’ to tackle abuse.

the advice comes as thousands of pupils prepare to return to school this week after the summer holidays.

Katie Ferguson, director of Respectme, scotland’s anti-bullying service, said she has urged parents to keep a close watch over their children online.

a similar warning was issued by Joanna Murphy, chairman of National Parent Forum of scotland, who said many parents do not understand their children’s online interactions.

Miss Ferguson said: ‘In reality, they need support to develop digital literacy skills; they need to learn how to navigate relationships and keep themselves safe.

‘this isn’t about prying into their digital life. Rather, it is about engaging with them and building trust, so that we are better placed to intervene.’

Mrs Murphy echoed the advice, adding: ‘this type of bullying makes it hard to understand what’s happening to your child and difficult to solve on your own.’

however, Larry Flannagan, leader of the Education Institute of scotland teaching union, said teachers recognise that bullying extends outside of school hours.

he added: ‘cyberbullying has become an increasing issue in schools and, like all bullying, can have a devastating impact. It can continue after school hours and well beyond the school gates.’