Schools’ warning to parents over ‘abusive and aggressive’ messages on social media
TOO MUCH TIME IS SPENT ON MANAGING ONLINE ‘FALL-OUTS’
A GROUP of schools in Nottinghamshire has written to parents asking for an end to “inaccurate, abusive or aggressive” social media comments.
The Joseph Whitaker Family of Schools, which operates sites in Rainworth, Blidworth and Ravenshead, says it has received increased reports of abusive remarks on online.
This, the schools say, is “beyond constructive criticism” and in some circumstances is aimed at individual members of staff.
Writing to parents across its seven schools, Kate Cumberpatch, head teacher at Abbey Gates Primary in Ravenshead, and the group’s chair of governors, Colin Barnard, said the school “will seek legal advice” in serious situations.
“As a group of schools, we always value both positive feedback and constructive criticism from all stakeholders,” the joint statement said.
“With the increased use of social media in society we are aware that some comments are made about our schools and in some cases individual staff that are beyond constructive criticism.
“In cases where it is clear that inaccurate, abusive or aggressive statements are made, the school will take all necessary action.
“Initially the school will contact the parent to discuss the content and ask for it to be removed.
“If this does not occur then the school will contact the social media site to ask for its removal.
“The school will seek legal advice when necessary and this could result in prosecution.”
The letter adds that while recognising most parents use social media responsibly, more action is needed by some parents to tackle comments online both from adults and pupils.
Parents were also encouraged to take more time to monitor the content on their children’s social media pages, with the schools spending “far too much time” managing online “fallouts”.
The letter adds: “It is worth noting that the majority of social media sites are for aged 13-plus.
“In circumstances where students post inappropriate content, we would encourage parents not to react to this by posting comments themselves. “We are spending far too much time dealing with ‘fall-outs’ on social media between children, and in some cases parents.
“We continue to educate and counsel children on the safe and responsible use of the internet but it seems that these lessons are not being learnt.
“In circumstances where you have concerns about any issue please continue to contact the school as usual.”
It adds: “As a group of schools, we ask that you are polite and courteous to the staff who are dealing with the concern especially the first point of contact.
“Finally, as you will appreciate it is not always possible for the required member of staff to be available immediately. However, we give a commitment that we will contact you as soon as possible to arrange a meeting or discussion by phone, in most cases within 24 hours.”
The school will seek legal advice when necessary and this could result in prosecution.
Kate Cumberpatch