by Jane McGarrigle, National Coordinator, Webwise
A new programme for 5th and 6th class pupils is now available for primary schools. Switched On is a digital citizenship programme developed by Webwise in collaboration with and supported by Coimisiún na Meán. The programme is designed to help teachers support pupils in becoming safe, responsible and confident digital citizens as they prepare for the transition to post-primary school.
Switched On helps pupils develop critical thinking skills and practical strategies for navigating the online world safely and confidently. The programme explores key topics such as recognising misinformation and disinformation, staying secure online, managing screen time, and protecting personal information and privacy. Pupils also learn about digital wellbeing, their digital footprint, media literacy, and their rights and responsibilities in digital spaces.
Throughout the programme, pupils are encouraged to reflect on how they engage online – whether socialising, learning, creating content, researching or gaming – and to develop healthy and responsible digital habits. The programme’s online learning platform is available in both English and Irish. Each module features interactive activities, including discussion-based tasks, ‘how-to’ guides to build digital skills, and scenario-based activities. The modules are supported by short videos that introduce key topics. These videos are also available in Irish Sign Language, helping ensure that every pupil can engage fully with the content. In addition, there are take-home materials designed to encourage conversations between pupils and their parents or guardians about online life, helping to strengthen communication and shared understanding around digital experiences.
Free teacher webinar
Webwise, supported by Coimisiún na Meán, will be hosting a free teacher webinar on 24 March at 3.15 pm to explore the new programme. You can register at https://oide-ie.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-x05jtn7StaiQtwG3kV_Mw. The event will be recorded.
The programme was officially launched on 5 March by Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett at St. Joseph’s National School, where pupils were the first in the country to try the new resource. Speaking at the launch, the Online Safety Commissioner highlighted the importance of supporting children to understand online safety, their digital footprint and their rights online, saying:
‘Coimisiún na Meán is delighted to support Webwise in delivering the Switched On Education programme for 5th and 6th class. This important programme informs primary school children about online safety, their digital footprint and how to develop healthy habits online. It prompts a discussion about their online life with parents and guardians. It also makes children aware of their rights online.’
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton TD also welcomed the programme, saying:
‘This new digital citizenship programme comes at a critical moment. It provides a thoughtful, age-appropriate introduction to key concepts like online safety, privacy, digital wellbeing, digital footprints, rights online and media literacy. By empowering our learners with the skills to become responsible digital citizens, we’re not just protecting them – we’re preparing them to thrive.’
To support teachers in getting started with the resource, a ‘how-to’ video is included for teachers to explain how to navigate the platform and how to use the teacher handbook alongside the online materials to deliver the programme effectively.
Teachers can learn more and access the full programme at https://www.webwise.ie/switchedon/.
