Northern Ireland has launched a new Digital Proficiency Course aimed at helping pupils, parents, and school communities stay safe online.
Education Minister Paul Givan officially unveiled the free course, which is delivered via the Safer Schools NI platform.
The initiative is designed to equip children and young people with the practical skills and knowledge needed to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. It also provides guidance for parents and educators, recognising the shared role they play in supporting children’s digital wellbeing.
The course was launched during a visit by Minister Givan to Braniel Primary School, one of 400 schools already pre-registered to participate. It will go live on Safer Internet Day, 10 February 2026, coinciding with international efforts to promote safer online experiences for children.
Delivered through the Safer Schools NI platform, the Digital Proficiency Course covers essential topics including:
- Staying safe on social media
- Recognising and responding to online harms
- Understanding emerging digital platforms
- Building confidence and resilience online
Paul Givan emphasised the importance of equipping children with the right digital skills:
“Our children and young people are engaging with technology and social media at increasingly younger ages. While these platforms offer opportunities, they also pose potential risks. It is vital to provide schools with the resources to help pupils navigate the digital world safely. The Safer Schools Digital Proficiency Course has been designed to meet this need.”
The course forms part of a wider effort by the Department of Education to strengthen online safety and digital literacy across Northern Ireland. The Safer Schools NI platform provides schools with advice, guidance, and resources to address emerging online risks, new social media trends, and evolving digital behaviours.
By offering the course free of charge, the Department aims to ensure all pupils, parents, and educators have access to high-quality online safety education, supporting safer and more confident use of digital platforms throughout Northern Ireland.