Using search engines in the classroom can be problematic because the descriptions of sites returned can be offensive. SafetyNet, the Research Machines filtering used in Aberdeen City schools,  prevents the sites described being accessed, but it is the descriptions themselves which are the problem.

The search engines used on this site are:

Google Safe Search for Secondary Schools

In the past we have advised against using Google in the classroom because, in its normal setting, it can return very unpleasant site descriptions. However, because it is the most effective search engine and the one with which most people are familiar, we've included the Google search for use in secondary schools but with its safe search settings switched on. This should still be used with care in the classroom because the safe search setting can be turned off at individual computers. As with all internet-related activities, supervision is the key to avoiding problems.

Yahoo! Kids (for Primary Schools)

"Yahoo! Kids is a browsable, searchable directory of Internet sites for kids. Each site has been carefully checked by an experienced educator to ensure the content and links are appropriate for kids aged 7-12. In addition to our directory, we also have a number of fun features, including Yahoo! Kids Games, Sports, and News pages, Movies, Animals, Science, and Dinosaurs, a Reference section, Parents' and Teachers' Guides, a Cool page, and lots more.."

http://del.icio.us

The del.icio.us links on this site have been compiled by teachers. However, if you use the search facility on the site, you search ALL del.icio.us sites, some of which may be inappropriate.

Remember

Web sites can change suddenly. Unfortunately, a site that has been verified as safe can eventually change its content, advertising policy, or the Web sites it directly links to, becoming inappropriate without Google or Yahoo! Kids knowing it.

Use search engines in the classroom with care.