Teachers log on for web safety training

EVERY teacher in Scotland is to be given training in keeping children safe online, the Scottish Government announced today, as it launched a £70,000 advertising campaign to warn parents of the dangers.

The government said it wanted to give everyone who cares for or works with children the skills and knowledge to help youngsters stay safe when they log on.

Children's minister Adam Ingram unveiled an action plan to prevent problems such as cyber bullying, internet fraud and on-line grooming as he visited Edinburgh's Firrhill High School.

It includes the provision of on-line training and guidance for all teachers and working with the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency to include the issue in training for police officers.

There will also be a 70,000 radio and press-based marketing campaign.

Launching the action plan and publicity campaign today, Mr Ingram said: "The internet provides countless opportunities for learning and socialising, but unfortunately there are malicious individuals and organisations who exploit the relative freedom which it provides."