IN last week’s Gazette & Herald (March 18) it was revealed that police had launched an investigation after reports that five teenage girls had been sexually exploited via the internet by older men.

Because of various commitments, I was unable to add my comment to the article. At Ryedale School, ensuring our students are safe online is of paramount importance to us.

All students are given clear and consistent messages from staff with regards to internet safety.

In response to growing concerns locally and nationally about the inappropriate use of social media, we have been supported by North Yorkshire Police and the local authority’s lead advisor for IT in delivering additional information sessions to students, parents, staff and governors at Ryedale School.

Our students are very aware of the protocols in school regarding e-safety and are strongly encouraged to report incidents and seek additional support where needed.”

Mark McCandless, headteacher at Ryedale School