THE online world has raised a number of concerning safety and legal issues in recent years, particularly for children.

Cyber bullying and online harassment are two issues Clarkson Community High School student services co-ordinator Damian Croxford said caused concerns when students used the internet.

“It is an issue in all schools, and not only within the school but outside of it also,” he said.

“We are setting up and delivering strategies to students to educate them about cyber bullying.”

Mr Croxford said one such program implemented at the school was a trial of the Make Cyberspace a Better Place campaign, an initiative developed by Kids Helpline and Optus.

The trial program provides schools with information aimed at years 8 to 10 students regarding cyber bullying, sexting, and the safe use of technology.

“The legal ramifications of sexting have been a real eye-opener for some of the older students,” Mr Croxford said.

“It gave them something to think about for their own safety and potential legal ramifications.”

Photo: From left, Rickale Millard, Anuishka Nanty, Mr Damian Croxford, Aleena Varghese, Mr Geraint Davies, Mariam Aslam and Jake Johnson.

Every classroom at Clarkson Community High School can be used as a computer lab after every Year 10, 11 and 12 student received a laptop as part of a Federal Government program.

Each student received a laptop, which they can take home and use at school as part of the (Digital) Education Revolution program.

Clarkson head of technology John Keyworth said every student having a laptop, combined with the school’s wireless network, meant every classroom in the school was now the equivalent of a computer lab.

“It’s fantastic; the school has bought every teacher a laptop as well, which means they can design (online) courses” he said.

“We have been running training sessions for staff members as well.”

Head girl Samantha Bradock, head boy Jordan Long and technology department head teacher John Keyworth. Picture: Emma Reeves