Responsible Use of Social Media
Keeping Children Safe Online – Responsible Use of Social Media
Social media and messaging apps are a big part of young people's lives. While they can be a great way to communicate with friends and stay connected, they can also lead to disagreements, inappropriate behaviour and online bullying.
At Greig City Academy, we are increasingly seeing situations where disagreements between students begin on social media or in group chats outside of school hours and are then brought into school when students see each other.
Unfortunately, people can sometimes say things online that they would not say face to face. Messages can quickly escalate, be shared with others or be taken out of context, leading to upset, conflict and disruption to learning.
We want to work together with parents and carers to encourage responsible social media use and ensure that all students feel safe, respected and supported, both online and in school.
How Parents and Carers Can Help
You don't need to be an internet expert to help keep your child safe online. We ask all parents and carers to take an active interest in their child's online activity and to regularly discuss appropriate behaviour on social media.
We strongly encourage parents and carers to:
- Check social media and group chats regularly: Be aware of the apps your child uses, who they are communicating with and the groups they are part of. Have open conversations about what they are seeing and sharing online.
- Look out for inappropriate content: Students should not be posting, sharing or encouraging content that is discriminatory, abusive, threatening, disrespectful or intended to upset others.
- Monitor group chats: Some group chats can become places where inappropriate messages, rumours, bullying or unkind comments are shared. Please ensure your child is not participating in these activities.
- Take action when necessary: If your child is part of a group where inappropriate behaviour is taking place, encourage them not to respond or contribute. Help them leave the group, block or report those involved, and make it clear that they should not rejoin or create similar groups.
- Talk about online behaviour: Remind your child that the same standards of kindness and respect expected in school should also apply online.
- Discuss the consequences: Help your child understand that messages, images and videos can be screenshotted, forwarded and shared, even when they believe they are communicating privately.
- Encourage reporting: Make sure your child knows they can speak to a trusted adult at home or school if they experience or witness anything online that makes them uncomfortable.
Important: If messages contain threats, bullying, harassment or other safeguarding concerns, please keep relevant evidence, such as screenshots, before deleting messages or leaving groups. Report serious concerns to your child's Head of Year.
Social Media Age Restrictions
Many popular social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat, generally require users to be at least 13 years old to create an account. However, being old enough to use a platform does not necessarily mean a child is ready to use it safely and responsibly.
We encourage parents and carers to check the age requirements of the apps their children use, review privacy settings and consider whether each platform is appropriate for their child's age and maturity.
The UK Government has also been considering further restrictions on children's access to social media. Parents and carers are encouraged to follow official government updates for the latest information on any proposed changes and when they may come into effect.
Working Together
We understand that managing children's online activity can sometimes be challenging, particularly as technology and social media platforms continue to change.
By working together, we can help our students to understand the importance of treating others with respect, making responsible choices and recognising that their actions online can have real-life consequences.
If an online disagreement is affecting your child or their relationships in school, please contact their Form Tutor or Head of Year so that appropriate support can be provided.
Useful Websites and Support for Parents and Carers
NSPCC – Social Media Safety
Information about popular social media platforms, online risks, privacy settings and supporting children with safe social media use.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/social-media/
UK Safer Internet Centre – Parents and Carers
Practical advice, online safety resources and guidance for parents and carers.
https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/parents-and-carers
Internet Matters
Age-specific online safety advice, parental control guidance and information about social media, cyberbullying and group chats.
https://www.internetmatters.org/
Childnet
Helpful resources for parents, carers and young people on staying safe online, managing online friendships and responding to cyberbullying.
Childline
Free, confidential advice and support for young people experiencing bullying, online abuse or other worries.
Together, we can help create a safer, kinder and more respectful online environment for all our students.
