Childnet announced today that it has been awarded the contract by the Department for Education and Skills to research and provide guidance for schools on preventing and responding to cyberbullying. This first phase of this work will be carried out between January and April 2007.
Childnet are members of the Department’s Cyberbullying TaskForce and will work closely with this group and wider organisations – including industry - as well as consulting closely with schools and young people themselves in developing this guidance for the Department.
Will Gardner, Childnet’s Research and Policy Manager, who will lead this work, said,
“Cyberbullying is a complex problem and a challenge facing most schools across the country. The effects can be very damaging on the victims, and it is vital that we help the Department produce clear guidance so schools can respond practically and have the advice, resources and support they need to respond to the issue and help prevent cyberbullying.”
Jim Knight, the Education Minister, said,
“Addressing the issue of cyberbullying is a key priority for this Government, and we are delighted to have teamed up with Childnet International, the children’s internet charity, to help us produce robust and practical guidance and ensure that young people, and teachers are able to use the new technology positively and safely without fear, discrimination or threat”
Joining Will on the project team at Childnet is Josie Fraser who has until recently been working with the Association of Colleges. Josie has wide ranging experience of working on education policy and ICT training, and expertise in social networking and user generated content sites.
During the consultation period Will and Josie will be undertaking a thorough review of current policies, and initiatives and are keen to hear from all those with an interest in this area both from the UK and abroad.
For more information contact.
Will Gardner
Research and Policy Manager
Childnet International
[email protected]
or ring 0207 639 6967