Sent to Parents & Carers on 05/03/26

 

Safeguarding Bulletin: School Wars TikTok Trend

We would like to make you aware of some recent social media posts initially circulating across several London boroughs, but has now reached the Ipswich area, referring to “school wars.” This is a new TikTok trend which lists groups of schools and asks children from the 2 opposing teams (blue and red) to fight each other, film and post these fights to get “points”.

Please be reassured that the school, local authority and the police are fully aware of this online activity. We are working closely in partnership with our local Safer Neighbourhood Teams, and there is a zero-tolerance approach to any form of disorder.

At this time, we have no indication of any specific risk to our students, and this communication is intended purely as a precaution.

 

How you can help:

  • Please speak with your child about staying safe, avoiding online rumours, and not engaging with any social media challenges connected to this trend.
  • We would also encourage parents to ensure that pupils are not bringing items to school that could be associated with rival identifiers (for example, coloured bandanas)
  • If you or your child become aware of any information that may be helpful, please report it directly to the police via 101, or 999 in an emergency. Please also keep us informed.

 

What is being done:

  • We are closely monitoring the situation and liaising with local agencies and partners should anything arise in the local area.
  • We will continue to maintain a vigilant and visible presence at the start and end of the day to help monitor and deter any inappropriate behaviour.

 

A reminder of our expectations:

  • We have a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour both in and out of the school, and online. It is important that students feel safe both in school and in the community.
  • We will always take the most rigorous steps to sanction any student who becomes involved in this type of activity, either as an individual or as part of a group. This includes sharing and encouraging online.

Thank you for your ongoing support in helping us maintain a safe and calm environment for all our pupils, staff and community.

Kind regards

Mr M Higgon

Principal