AN increase in cyber-bullying has led to Queen Elizabeth II High School in Peel organising an information evening for parents.

A statement from the school said that it was while reviewing its anti-bullying policy in November 2009 that a rise in cyber-bullying was highlighted.

It said: "Following consultation with parents and pupils in the west of the Island it was clear that there was a need to provide parents with further information and access to support."

The information evening will take place on Thursday, November 4.

Headteacher Sue Moore said: "Bringing several agencies together under one roof seemed like the ideal way to provide this service.

"We have done a lot of anti-bullying work in school with our students and we feel that it is now time to involve parents so that we can work together more effectively to keep children safe."

Research in the UK has indicated one in three children is a victim of harrassment online.

The evening will provide practical workshops for parents around the issues of social networking site Facebook, safe mobile phone use, cyber-bullying and the law and examining the emotional effects of cyber-bullying.

Representatives from Manx Telecom, the police and other services will be joined by the school's ICT staff at the event.

In addition the school will be showcasing its virtual learning environment in order to demonstrate to parents how pupils can use the internet effectively to enhance their learning in the classroom.

Manx Telecom marketing communications manager Voirrey Barron said: "We recognise how important it is to give parents the knowledge and skills to make sure their children are safe when using the internet and we are happy to provide our technical expertise to support this worthwhile event.

"It complements methods we already use to spread awareness about internet safety in general.

"This includes a range of initiatives including help and advice on our website, information articles for families in local publications, plus Manx Telecom staff giving internet safety advice to primary school children as part of the Crucial Crew event at the Isle of Man College."

Space at the information evening is limited and places will be offered on a first come, first served basis.

To reserve a place contact the school on 841000 (the school will be open from 9am to 4pm during half term).