Electronic devices and other image recording devices
Electronic devices such as iPads and computers can be a valuable tool of joint research and sharing children’s progress and news. However, if not managed and used safely these devices can present safeguarding risks to children. Therefore, at Acorns we implement a strict procedure to ensure that while we get the most of technology children’s safety is maintained. Our policy reflects the updated ‘Screen use’ guidance of DfE (July 2026).
Procedure:
Phones/glasses and other imagery recording devices
The use of mobile phones or any other personal electronic devices other than Acorns staff ipads will not be allowed at any time at Widcombe Acorns this the includes wearing of smart glasses and any devices which can record imagery.
Staff and visitors are asked to keep devices in the office. Personal mobile phones should not be used to contact parents unless in an emergency, eg: if the landline/ work mobile ceased to work/power cut etc.
Acorns iPads
Acorns staff team use iPads to take photos, record short videos and write notes on the Acorns children. Staff are responsible for their allocated ipad. Photos are deleted weekly after uploading onto children’s learning journals.
Our iPads are checked routinely by a manager to ensure all safety settings are on and the device is being used in accordance with setting policy.
The iPads are used solely for Acorns work, they are not to be used for any reason other than completing the Acorns children’s on-line journals.
Permanent members of staff complete the children’s on-line journals both in Acorns and in their own home. iPads must be stored safely and no-one else must have access to the iPads at any time. Only Acorns staff may use these iPads.
A signed agreement from parents/carers is obtained before any photos or video images are taken of children.
Photographs are not allowed to be taken in the following areas of Acorns:
Toilet/bathroom
Changing areas.
Group photographs will only be used if we have full permission for taking photographs of every child included.
Photographs of children will only be included on our website and social media if written permission has been granted and any new images uploaded as from September 2026 will not include faces. The website and all electronic devices are password protected.
The use of screens with children at Acorns is limited and minimal. Screens are only used if enhancing a child’s learning in an interactive supervised way, such as an adult asking open ended questions during a shared investigation. Screens do not replace adult interaction, story times or active learning.
Policy Reviewed September 2026