Hi, I'm Alan Mackenzie
Online Safety Specialist
Since 2007, I’ve helped schools, colleges, families and organisations understand and respond to online safety risks. My approach is straightforward and evidence-informed, translating complex safeguarding issues into practical advice that staff, children and parents can actually use.
Working in online safety since
Schools Supported
Staff, pupils and parents reached
More Than Compliance
Effective online safety is about more than meeting statutory requirements. Children engage more when education reflects the platforms, games and online experiences that are part of their lives. That relevance helps turn awareness into practical decisions and safer behaviour.
Understanding Their World
I don’t approach online safety as an outsider. I use social media, have been a gamer since the 1990s and keep up with the platforms, trends and behaviours shaping young people’s online experiences. This understanding helps me make training relatable while keeping safeguarding advice realistic, balanced and free from scaremongering.
Strategic Expertise
My experience extends beyond individual schools. After beginning this work in 2007 and becoming a CEOP Ambassador, I’ve worked with local authorities, professional networks and other organisations, developing partnerships that connect education, safeguarding and enforcement.
Since 2022, I’ve worked closely with Lincolnshire Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT). This gives me valuable insight into how offenders operate and informs my involvement in the development and management of the Lincolnshire Police Safeguarding Network..
For clients, this means I can translate complex research, safeguarding intelligence and legal developments into practical, manageable advice. The focus is always evidence-informed education and support without unnecessary fear or scaremongering.
Professional Experience and Affiliations
My wider professional experience includes partnerships, memberships and specialist roles connected with the following organisations and networks.
My Approach
My work is guided by three principles: practical advice, relatable education and preparation for emerging risks.
Pragmatic
Clear, evidence-informed advice that schools and families can put into practice.
Relatable
Education grounded in the platforms, behaviours and experiences shaping young people’s online lives.
Forward-Thinking
Preparation for emerging risks while supporting confident, positive and responsible use of technology.
Let’s Discuss Your Online Safety Needs
Whether you need training, pupil or parent sessions, or strategic consultancy, get in touch to discuss the support that would work best for your school, college or organisation.
