Course Summary
This training course provides staff with knowledge about Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) and practical skills to address emerging online threats such as AI. In an increasingly digital world, safeguarding requires more than just general awareness; it demands specific, up-to-date knowledge. This 1-day course provides social care and education staff with a deep dive into the Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) framework, updated specifically to address the emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence and automated technologies.
We move beyond the basics to explore the complex digital landscape where children live, play, and socialise. During the session, we will cover:
- The core mission of CEOP and the professional’s role in supporting online protection.
- Defining and distinguishing between AI-enabled grooming, non-human grooming, and AI-enabled abuse.
- Evaluating how children use social media and gaming platforms from both healthy and vulnerable perspectives.
- Identifying the risks associated with digital culture, including over-sharing and the pressure of online trends.
- Practical steps for responding to safeguarding concerns in an AI-driven environment.
Why is AI-enabled grooming a new challenge for safeguarding?
Unlike traditional online risks, AI-enabled grooming can happen 24/7, sophisticated chatbots and AI companions can now inhabit gaming spaces and other online platforms, mimicking human empathy. This makes it harder for young people to distinguish between a "friend" and a programmed risk. Our training focuses on these emerging AI companions, teaching you how to spot "virtual grooming" and how to empower children to challenge suspicious digital interactions before they escalate into harm.
This training ensures your team isn't just reacting to yesterday's problems, but is equipped to handle the reality of online safety today.
Course Learning Outcomes
Review the learning objectives below. Expand each aim to view the detailed criteria this course covers.
- 1.1Define the meaning and purpose of CEOP and its key aims in protecting children and young people online.
- 1.2Explain CEOP’s national and international responsibilities in tackling online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
- 1.3Identify organisational and professional responsibilities in supporting CEOP activity and contributing to multi‑agency safeguarding.
- 1.4Confirm the meaning of AI‑enabled grooming, non‑human grooming, synthetic personas, and AI‑enabled abuse.
- 1.5Describe how CEOP guidance aligns with wider UK legislation.
- 1.6Explain the importance of professional curiosity, accurate recording and timely escalation when concerns are raised about a child’s online safety, including concerns relating to AI‑enabled grooming and exploitation.
- 2.1Evaluate the different ways children and young people use the internet and social media from both healthy and vulnerable perspectives.
- 2.2Explain the meaning of artificial intelligence (AI), chatbots, generative AI, and AI companions including how these systems simulate conversation and emotional connection.
- 2.3Analyse risks associated with misuse of AI, including AI‑generated grooming scripts, deepfake sexual imagery, synthetic child abuse material, AI‑driven emotional manipulation and non‑human grooming patterns
- 2.4Identify signs that may raise concern that a child is being groomed or exploited online including through AI‑enabled interactions.
- 2.5Explain how gaming, culture, sharing behaviours, and online communities can increase vulnerability to exploitation, including AI‑generated content and in‑game chat.
- 2.6Describe how AI can accelerate, disguise, or automate grooming behaviours, increasing risk of virtual exploitation.
- 2.7Define strategies for recognising and reducing risk when supporting vulnerable children and young people.
- 2.8Explain the concept of digital resilience and how it supports safer decision‑making online.
- 3.1Explain the procedure to follow and action to take if concerns are raised about the online safety of a child or young person
- 3.2Explain how to respond to suspected CEOP‑related concerns and AI‑enabled grooming attempts, including safe evidence capture, reporting pathways, and immediate safeguarding actions.
- 3.3Explain organisational responsibilities in preventing CEOP and AI‑enabled abuse.
- 3.4Describe how to apply trauma‑informed digital practice when supporting a child who may have been harmed online.
- 3.5Explain the importance of multi‑agency working.
- 4.1Practice digital literacy skills to critically evaluate online interactions and content.
- 4.2Describe ways to build confidence in challenging suspicious AI interactions and recognising when an online relationship may be unsafe.
- 4.3Explain how to teach children to differentiate between human and non‑human online contact.
- 4.4Describe strategies for supporting children to safely navigate AI‑enabled platforms and gaming environments.
- 4.5Explain how to promote digital resilience, critical thinking, and healthy online relationships.
- 4.6Describe how to empower children to report concerns, seek help early, and understand their rights under the Online Safety Act.
- 4.7Explain how to adapt online‑safety education for neurodiverse children and those with additional vulnerabilities.
- 4.8Know where to access additional sources of support and information, including official CEOP reporting routes.
Who is this course for?
This Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) training course is for social care workers, teachers, foster carers, and youth support workers who need a down-to-earth, practical understanding of modern online risks. It is ideal for anyone responsible for the safety of children and young people in a professional or care-based setting.
Duration
1 day course - we can be flexible on start and finish times to suit your needs such as school run friendly times.
Availability
This CEOP and AI training course is offered in two delivery formats:
- Remote Online: Led by a live tutor via Zoom or Microsoft Teams, allowing participants to join remotely. (Also known as virtual classroom training)
- Face-to-Face: Delivered in person at your location or a venue you arrange. (Also referred to as on-site training)
View a comparison of Remote and in-person face to face training .
Complete our quick enquiry form for a price and available dates.
Certification
Each learner completing this course will receive a digital (PDF) certificate of learning.
Accreditation
The course contents are accredited by the Open College Network (OCN) Credit4Learning as a Level 3 course.
Choose the learning environment that works best for you: our expert-led training is offered in two convenient formats - remote tutor led online or in person face to face.
Flexible start and finish times to suit you. Contact us for available dates.
The course contents are accredited by the Open College Network (OCN) Credit4Learning as a Level 3 course.
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