Netflix drama Adolescence has been immensely popular over the past month, and has sparked an increase in discussion around online culture, cyberbullying, and violence against girls and women.

In this short discussion, Katy Rees, Managing Director at Smile Education, is joined once again by independent safeguarding consultant Adele Gladman to unpack some of the safeguarding lessons that could be learned from the thought-provoking Netflix drama Adolescence.

Together, Katy and Adele explore how the show reflects real-world safeguarding concerns, from online influence and identity struggles to gender dynamics. With insights drawn from both professional experience and personal conversations with their own children, Katy and Adele highlight the growing gap in understanding between adults and young people, and why that matters more than ever.

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or someone working with young people, this discussion offers an honest, grounded take on how we can better support and safeguard this generation, both online and offline.

Watch the full conversation below.