Online Safety Policy

Walyo Academy (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to ensuring that all online tutoring is delivered safely, securely, and in accordance with UK safeguarding standards. This Online Safety Policy outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and procedures for tutors, students, and parents/guardians when participating in online lessons.

This Policy applies to all users of Walyo Academy’s online tutoring services.

  1. Purpose of This Policy

1.1 To protect children and young people from online risks during tutoring. 1.2 To ensure tutors follow safe and professional online practices. 1.3 To provide clear rules for the use of online platforms and digital communication. 1.4 To support compliance with UK safeguarding legislation.

  1. Approved Online Platforms

2.1 All lessons must be delivered using Walyo Academy‑approved platforms, such as:

  • Zoom
  • Microsoft Teams
  • Google Meet

2.2 Tutors must not use personal or unapproved platforms. 2.3 Tutors must not communicate with students via personal messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram).

  1. Tutor Responsibilities

Tutors must:

  • Use only their professional Walyo Academy accounts
  • Maintain a professional background and appearance
  • Ensure their environment is quiet, safe, and appropriate
  • Never share personal contact details
  • Never record lessons unless authorised
  • Report any online safety concerns immediately
  • Ensure all communication remains professional and lesson‑related

Tutors must not:

  • Contact students outside scheduled lessons
  • Use social media to communicate with students
  • Engage in private messaging with students
  • Allow students to access their personal information
  1. Student Responsibilities

Students must:

  • Attend lessons from a safe, appropriate environment
  • Use their real name when joining lessons
  • Behave respectfully and follow tutor instructions
  • Keep cameras on unless agreed otherwise
  • Not record lessons without permission
  • Not share meeting links with others

Students must not:

  • Use offensive or inappropriate language
  • Share personal information unnecessarily
  • Attempt to contact tutors outside official channels
  • Use screen‑sharing without permission
  1. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Parents/guardians must:

  • Ensure students under 18 are supervised during lessons
  • Provide a safe and appropriate learning environment
  • Ensure devices have up‑to‑date security settings
  • Report any concerns to Walyo Academy immediately
  1. Online Safety Risks Covered by This Policy

This Policy aims to protect students from:

  • Online grooming
  • Cyberbullying
  • Exposure to inappropriate content
  • Unauthorised contact
  • Privacy breaches
  • Identity misuse
  • Unsafe digital behaviour
  1. Recording of Lessons

7.1 Lessons must not be recorded by students or tutors unless explicitly authorised by Walyo Academy. 7.2 If recording is approved, all participants must be informed in advance. 7.3 Recordings are stored securely and used only for safeguarding or training purposes.

  1. Digital Security Measures

Walyo Academy implements:

  • Encrypted communication platforms
  • Secure login procedures
  • Restricted tutor access to student data
  • Regular monitoring of online safety compliance

Tutors must ensure:

  • Devices are password‑protected
  • Antivirus software is active
  • No unauthorised individuals can view or overhear lessons
  1. Reporting Online Safety Concerns

Any online safety concern must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

📧safeguarding@walyo.co.uk

Concerns may include:

  • Inappropriate behaviour
  • Suspicious messages
  • Technical breaches
  • Student disclosures
  • Unauthorised access to lessons
  1. Responding to Online Safety Incidents

10.1 The DSL will assess the concern and take appropriate action. 10.2 Lessons may be suspended if safety is compromised. 10.3 Where necessary, we will contact external safeguarding authorities. 10.4 All incidents are documented and stored securely.

  1. Breaches of This Policy

Breaches may result in:

  • Suspension of tutoring services
  • Termination of tutor contracts
  • Reporting to safeguarding authorities
  • Restriction of student access
  1. Policy Review

This Policy is reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or best practice changes.

  1. Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead📧safeguarding@walyo.co.uk

General Support📧support@walyo.co.uk