Six out of 10 teachers say they are worried about their pupils’ safety online after many became dependent on the internet to continue learning amid lockdown, according to a survey.

And, of 1,004 teachers surveyed, 67 per cent said technology is now more important than textbooks for learning, while 96 per cent think it is important children have access to a connected device.

The study also reveals that more than half (56 per cent) of teachers felt unprepared for remote teaching before Covid-19 but the majority think it has had a positive impact on their (71 per cent) and their pupils’ (65 per cent) ability to use technology for learning.

The survey was carried out by Opinium for online child safety organisation Internet Matters, which is calling for parents to stay on top of their child’s internet activity as it launches a new campaign on issues that young people might be facing.

These include cyberbullying, screen time, peer pressure, online grooming and viewing inappropriate content.

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“Many parents have done a great job homeschooling their children over the last six months, despite busy work schedules,” said Matt Burton, headteacher and star of Channel 4’s Educating Yorkshire series, who is part of the campaign.

Keeping children safe online

“However, tech is becoming part of the new normal when it comes to teaching, so it’s important that parents have a good understanding of their child’s school’s online learning policy.

“We are concerned that parents may relax and think school is taking care of online safety now we’re back, but it needs a joint approach, especially with so many areas facing local lockdowns.”

Carolyn Bunting, chief executive of Internet Matters, added: “These figures highlight why it’s more important than ever for parents to stay on top of their child’s online safety.

“We know the back-to-school period is a pinch-point for online safety issues.

“Many children will own a phone for the first time and some may not have seen their friends since March.

“This, combined with tech playing an even bigger role in children’s everyday school life, is why we are urging parents to stay switched on when it comes to their child’s online safety.”

Andy Burrows, the NSPCC’s head of child safety online policy, said: “We agree parents have a key role to play in keeping their children safe on social media but the onus should be on tech firms to keep their young users safe.

“If children aren’t safe online then social media platforms should be held accountable, which is why we’re calling on the government to make progress on the Online Harms Bill this autumn.”

The survey also reveals that 53 per cent of teachers believe this year’s school closures are likely to cause their pupils issues.