WORKSHOPS aimed at keeping children safe while they are clicking online have proved a hit with pupils at a Barrow school.

Youngsters at Yarlside Academy in Redoak Avenue learned all about ways to surf the internet without entering dangerous territory when Jeff Haslam from the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre visited the school on Tuesday.

Mr Haslam visited classes to tell them what to be wary of when browsing the internet and ran through the 'SMART' message with them.

The interactive workshop saw digital savvy pupils talk about their experience with using different devices and apps such as FaceTime, Snapchat and Instagram, and learn how to identify the tell-tale signs of inappropriate content and messages.

Mr Haslam said: "The best advice is to think like a detective before you post pictures. Think about what somebody might find out about you.

"You wouldn't put your personal information on a sheet of paper and post it through the Tesco doorway for everyone to see."

A recent survey by BBC Newsround found three-quarters of 10 to 12-years were using social media despite being below the age limit to have Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest accounts.

Statistics show almost a quarter of 13 to 18-year-olds have suffered online trolling and four in five have seen or heard online hate in the last year.

Therefore, workshops designed to educate children about good practice when using the internet are vital at an early age.

Some of the key messages some of the Yarlside Academy pupils picked up from Tuesday's sessions included: "I learned not to answer messages if you don't know the person," "always tell someone you trust," "if they are mean to you block them and report them" and "accepting files can be dangerous".

How old should you be before you use social media?
12
14
16
18 & over

Parents can find out more tips here .