Workshop on Online Grooming & Exploitation

Overview

Online grooming and exploitation rarely begin with obvious warning signs. Instead, they often develop gradually—through trust, familiarity, and ongoing interaction. Many students do not recognise when an interaction is becoming unsafe, particularly when manipulation is subtle or disguised as friendship, attention, or opportunity.

This workshop focuses on how grooming actually works in today’s digital environment, helping students recognise patterns early and respond before situations escalate.

What the session covers

Students will:

• Understand the stages of grooming, from initial contact to control

• Recognise common manipulation tactics, including flattery, secrecy, and gradual pressure

• Explore how exploitation can occur across social media, gaming, and messaging platforms

• Understand that harm is not limited to “strangers” and can involve people they feel they know

• Identify early warning signs and turning points in interactions

• Learn how situations escalate and how to exit safely

How the session is delivered

The session uses structured frameworks and real-life scenarios to help students understand how manipulation feels in practice—not just in theory.

Students are guided through decision-making points, helping them recognise when something shifts from safe to unsafe and what action to take.

What students will gain

Students will leave with:

• The ability to recognise grooming behaviours early

• A deeper understanding of how manipulation works in real situations

• Practical strategies to disengage safely and seek support

• Increased confidence to protect themselves and others

Why this matters for schools

Grooming and exploitation remain key safeguarding concerns, yet many students lack the awareness to identify early-stage risk.

This workshop supports prevention by equipping students with the tools to recognise manipulation before harm occurs—helping schools take a proactive approach to safeguarding.