Health and Safety Online

Overview

This 60-minute session is designed for a single Year 7 student as part of the "Mastering Computer Basics" unit. It focuses on developing understanding of the importance of health and safety when using computers, specifically looking at ergonomics and online safety. The lesson aligns with the National Curriculum for England’s computing programme of study, building key digital literacy, safety, and responsible use skills.

National Curriculum Links

Key Stage 3 Computing – Programme of Study:

Understand the opportunities computer networks offer for communication and collaboration (including the internet) and how to assess and manage risks (DfE, National Curriculum Computing KS3, 2013).
Use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact (DfE, National Curriculum Computing, KS3).

PSHE and Citizenship (Relationships Education) links:

Understand online risks and how to report them safely.
Learn strategies to maintain physical health and mental wellbeing when working with digital technology.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, the student will be able to:

Explain key ergonomic principles to reduce physical strain when using computers.
Identify common online safety risks including privacy, cyberbullying, and digital footprint.
Demonstrate strategies to create a safe and healthy computing environment both physically and digitally.
Reflect on their own computer usage habits and suggest personalised improvements.

Curriculum Competencies Developed

Critical thinking about safe technology use.
Practical application of ergonomic knowledge.
Online behaviour awareness and risk management.
Communication skills through interactive discussion.

Resources

Computer with internet access and webcam.
Printed handouts showing ergonomic workstation setup.
“Health and Safety Online” scenario cards.
A short animated video on online safety (teacher-led playback).
Worksheet for self-reflection on current habits.
Poster materials for creating a personal “Health & Safety Online” checklist.

Lesson Structure

1. Starter Activity (10 minutes)

Activity: Quick discussion & mind map on "What do you do when using a computer?" focussing on how you sit, take breaks, and behave online.
Purpose: Activate prior knowledge and highlight current student habits, encouraging self-awareness.
Curriculum Link: Safeguarding and understanding risks (Computing KS3).

2. Introducing Ergonomics (15 minutes)

Teaching input: Explain 5 key ergonomic principles: correct chair/desk height, screen level, lighting, sitting posture, and taking regular breaks. Use printed images and arrange student’s setup demonstration if possible.
Activity: Student evaluates own workstation/setup against ergonomic principles and makes notes.
Challenge: Identify three improvements they can realistically make immediately.
Curriculum Link: Physical health knowledge linked to computing use (PSHE Link).

3. Exploring Online Safety (15 minutes)

Interactive video: Watch a short animation explaining: privacy settings, cyberbullying recognition, password security, and digital footprint.
Discussion: Reflect on what they learned; use scenario cards presenting typical online risks (e.g., stranger contact, oversharing). Student decides best response for each.
Curriculum Link: Safe, respectful, responsible use of technology (Computing KS3).

4. Personal Health and Safety Plan (15 minutes)

Task: Student creates a personalised “Health & Safety Online” checklist poster including ergonomic tips and online safety rules they commit to follow.
Worksheet: Complete a self-assessment on current habits and list next steps for improvement.
Extension: Set a reminder to review and adapt their checklist weekly.
Curriculum Link: Developing responsible digital citizenship and self-management.

5. Plenary and Assessment (5 minutes)

Oral Quiz: Teacher questions student on key lesson points (e.g., “Why is it important to take breaks?” “What should you do if someone is unkind online?”).
Assessment: Informal, based on responses and quality of personal checklist.
Feedback: Immediate verbal praise and encouragement, identifying one strong understanding and one area for future focus.

Differentiation and Personalisation

One-to-one setting allows tailoring explanations and pacing to student’s prior knowledge and confidence levels.
Scenario difficulty adjusted according to understanding; simpler examples or extended challenge questions as needed.
Visual supports and practical demonstrations emphasise engagement.

Extension Ideas

Encourage student to teach a family member basic ergonomic setups and online safety tips.
Create a digital infographic version of their checklist using simple software.
Explore related PSHE topics on mental health and well-being.

Reflection for Teachers

Did the student actively participate in evaluating their setup and online habits?
Were they able to articulate risks and safety measures clearly?
How effective was the scenario card activity in generating discussion?
Plan remediation or enrichment based on knowledge gaps observed.

This lesson plan provides a rich, curriculum-aligned experience for a Year 7 student, blending classroom theory with practical health and safety strategies for technology use. It ensures safe computing habits are embedded early, supporting lifelong digital wellbeing.

Teaching Instructions