Electronic Device Policy

Including all electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart watches, iPads, tablets and cameras.

This policy refers to all electronic devices with imaging and sharing capabilities, able to take pictures, record videos, send or receive calls and messages. This includes but is not limited to : cameras, mobile telephones, tablets and any recording devices including smartwatches. More and more devices are technically, capable of connecting us to the outside world. We will adapt the policy to include all devices we deem required to safeguard children.

Our priority is to keep children safe in line with safeguarding procedures and requirements. Whytebeams insists on the safe and appropriate use of all electronic devices on the premises. It is also our intention that staff, volunteers and visitors at Whytebeams should feel protected from any allegations of improper use of their electronic devices. Therefore, the following policy is in place:

Mobile phones and other devices that accept and allow calls, messages and video calling 36 WHYTEBEAMS NURSERY At Whytebeams we promote the safety and welfare of all children in our care. We believe our staff should be completely attentive during their hours of working to ensure all children in the nursery receive good quality care and education. To ensure the safety and well-being of children we do not allow staff to use personal mobile phones during working hours.

Telephones (landline & mobile)

Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives today, however, protecting the children from harm is our priority and we must all be vigilant against the misuse of mobile phones. This includes : staff becoming distracted by their mobile phone and anyone taking photographs and videos of children with them. The recording, taking and sharing of images, video and audio on any mobile phone is not permitted under any circumstances for any individual entering the setting.

The primary use of telecommunications is via our nursery landline however we do have a mobile supplied by the nursery which can be used to make and take calls or texts messages from parents, carers and other professionals. It may also be used on outings. The camera is not to be used to take images of children at any time.

No mobiles or iPads, including the nursery mobile, or nursery iPads are be taken into the toilets at any time.

Staff Personal Mobile Phones/smartwatches/fitbits

Staff personal mobile phones must be kept in their bags in the kitchen. This is to protect the children from misuse but also to protect the staff from any potential situation that could be misinterpreted. Smart watches and fitbits may be worn but the camera must be disabled and notifications silenced. Staff may use them only to tell the time. Spot checks will be carried out by the management team. Staff may use their personal mobile phones on their breaks either in the kitchen or in an area where no children are present. We do not have a staff room therefore staff are asked to assess a suitable area or ask the management team. Mobile phones and devices may only be checked or used outside of contracted working hours even if the children have left the building. If staff need to make a call in an exceptional circumstance, they may do so by asking permission from the management team and using a suitable area away from the children.

Nursery staff and volunteers ensure that the work telephone number is known to immediate family and other people who need to contact them in an emergency. Tel: 020 8660 1641 Mob: 07591 232264.

Parents and Visitors mobile phones

Whilst we recognise that there may be emergency situations which necessitate the use of a mobile telephone, in order to ensure the safety and welfare of children in our care and share information about the child’s day : 37 WHYTEBEAMS NURSERY Parents and visitors are requested not to use their mobile phones whilst on the premises including outside at drop off and collection. If you are found to be using your phone inside the nursery premises you will be asked to finish the call or take the call outside. We do this to ensure all children are safeguarded and the time for dropping off and picking up is a quality handover opportunity where we can share details about your child.

Visitors are requested to leave their mobile phones or devices in their bags and either keep bags with them or leave them in the kitchen.