Sadly, we are aware that there have been some negative comments made on social media by a very few of our parents regarding our school.
On behalf of the Governing Body and the school community, I would like to remind everyone that we have a very clear social media policy in our Parent Code of Conduct which is on our website.
I would like to remind you of our expectations :
Parent Code of Conduct Appendix 1:
Inappropriate use of Social Network Sites
Social media websites are being used increasingly to fuel campaigns and complaints against schools, Headteachers, school staff, and in some cases other parents/students. The Governors consider the use of social media websites being used in this way as unacceptable and not in the best interests of the children or the whole school community. Any concerns you may have must be made through the appropriate channels by speaking to the class teacher, the Headteacher or the Chair of Governors, so they can be dealt with fairly, appropriately and effectively for all concerned.
In the event that any student or parent/carer of a child/ren being educated in the school is found to be posting libellous or defamatory comments on Facebook or other social network sites, they will be reported to the appropriate ‘report abuse’ section of the network site. All social network sites have clear rules about the content, which can be posted, on the site and they provide robust mechanisms to report contact or activity which breaches this.
The school will also expect that any parent/carer or student removes such comments immediately.
In serious cases the school will also consider its legal options to deal with any such misuse of social networking and other sites. Additionally, and perhaps more importantly is the issue of cyber bullying and the use by one child or a parent to publicly humiliate another by inappropriate social network entry. We will take and deal with this as a serious incident of school bullying. Thankfully such incidents are extremely rare
Thankfully incidents like this are very rare but are extrememly upsetting to our staff and community who work so hard to ensure that Ysgol Acerafir is a happy, caring and nurturing school for all our children, families and staff.
I remind you that we are always available to discuss any conerns you may have. If you feel that we havent dealt with an issue appropriately then please see our complaints policy.
MaMay I also remind you that If any concerns are shared /discussed on public platforms, e.g. WhatsApp groups, Facebook, etc , the school may refuse to investigate as this makes it very difficult for the school to find out exactly what has happened.
We appreciate your support and understanding with this matter.
Mrs Turner