Maldon MP, Rt Hon Sir John Whittingdale visited Trinity St Mary's CofE Primary School in South Woodham Ferrers to take part in an assembly about online safety.

The assembly was organised through Google's 'Be Internet Legends' programme. 

Sir John also met staff and pupils and answered their questions.

Be Internet Legends is an interactive educational programme from Google and Parents Zone which aims to help primary school children across the UK become safer and more confident explorers of the online world.

Developed in close collaboration with experts, children, and schools, Be Internet Legends focuses on five internet safety pillars:

• Being sharp about what they share
• Being alert to scams and phishing attacks
• Being secure by creating strong passwords are looking after their personal information
• Being kind to others online
• Being brave by talking to trusted adults when they come across something they're not sure about

Sir John said: "I was delighted to join the Google team at Trinity St Mary's and was really impressed by the knowledge and common sense that the children showed during the session."

According to the Office of National Statistics, in 2020, 98% of children aged ten and under in the UK had access to the internet.

Sir John adds: "Learning how to stay safe online is incredibly important and I hope that all our local schools will take advantage of this programme".