Form-Time Digital Safety Check-In
A structured script for form tutors to run a proactive digital safety check-in during registration or form time — accessible, engaging, and non-alarmist.
Form time is an underused opportunity for brief, normalising conversations about online safety. A regular check-in reduces stigma, builds rapport, and helps students feel that digital concerns are taken seriously by the adults around them. This script is designed to be delivered casually and conversationally — not as a lecture.
When to have this conversation
During form time or registration — ideally once per half-term, or in response to a recent incident in school or in the news.
Before you start
- • Skim the Thinkuknow website before the session for any recent updates relevant to your age group.
- • Have the Childline number (0800 1111) available to share if needed.
- • Keep the tone conversational — you are opening a door, not delivering a lesson.
Conversation by age group
"Before we get started this morning, I want to spend a couple of minutes talking about something. Nothing to worry about — just a check-in."
teacher
"I want to ask a quick question, and you do not have to answer out loud. In the last couple of weeks, has anything happened online that made you feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused?"
A show of hands is optional — the goal is to prompt private reflection, not public disclosure.
teacher
"Things like someone messaging you that you did not expect, seeing content that upset you, or someone being unkind online — all of those count. They happen more than people realise, and they are not your fault."
teacher
"If any of that is relevant to you, you can come and talk to me privately after form time. Or if you would prefer, you can speak to another member of staff, the school counsellor, or call Childline on 0800 1111 — it is free, confidential, and available any time."
teacher
"The most important thing I want you to know is that if something happens online that worries you, telling a trusted adult is always the right thing to do — and you will not be in trouble for it."
Repeat the no-blame message consistently across every session.
Tips for this age
- • Adjust the specific examples you give to reflect what is current and relevant for your tutor group's age and interests.
- • If a student makes a comment or joke that hints at a concern, note it and follow up privately — do not dismiss it.
- • Consistency matters: a two-minute check-in every half-term is more effective than an occasional hour-long lesson.
Follow-up actions
- → After form time, follow up privately with any student who indicated they had a concern or made a comment worth noting.
- → Log a brief note of the conversation — date, topic, any responses of concern — in line with your school's pastoral record-keeping policy.
Related safety topics
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.