Online Identity and Digital Reputation
A lesson for secondary students exploring how their online presence shapes how others see them, and the long-term impact of their digital footprint.
Overview
This lesson challenges secondary students to think critically about their online identity and digital reputation. Through a case study analysis, personal audit, and group discussion, students explore how their online activity creates a lasting record that can affect future opportunities. The lesson promotes personal responsibility without being preachy or judgmental.
Learning Objectives
- •Understand the concept of a digital footprint and how it is created
- •Analyse how online behaviour can affect real-world reputation and opportunities
- •Evaluate privacy settings on platforms they use
- •Develop strategies for managing their online identity positively
Activities
Case study analysis
15 minutesStudents read two anonymised case studies: one where a social media post affected a university application, and one where a positive online portfolio helped someone get a job. In pairs, they identify what went right or wrong and what could have been done differently.
Personal digital audit
15 minutesStudents search their own name (on school devices with safe search) and review their most recent social media posts through the eyes of a university admissions officer or employer. They note anything they would change.
Privacy settings workshop
15 minutesUsing screenshots or demo accounts, students identify the five most important privacy settings on a platform they use. They create a quick-reference guide for a younger student explaining what each setting does.
Reflection and action plan
10 minutesEach student writes three specific actions they will take this week to improve their digital reputation. These are private and not shared unless the student chooses to.
Discussion Points
- •Should employers and universities be allowed to search for applicants on social media?
- •Is there a difference between your real self and your online self?
- •How do you decide what to share and what to keep private?
- •Can you ever truly delete something from the internet?
Key Takeaways
- •Your digital footprint is permanent — think before you post
- •Privacy settings are your first line of defence, but they are not foolproof
- •A positive online presence can be an asset for your future
This content is designed to support professionals in their safeguarding role. It does not replace your organisation's safeguarding policies or training requirements.
Related Resources
Was this page helpful?
Last reviewed: 2026-03-15