Dear Parent/Carer
Re: “School Wars” Social Media Posts
We want to update you on a developing issue affecting pupils in schools across London and Kent. There is a viral trend on TikTok and other social media platforms that appears to promote so-called “school wars” or “Red vs Blue” confrontations between pupils from different schools. These posts have encouraged students to meet outside of school to engage in pre-arranged disputes, sometimes with suggestions of using items as weapons, and to film the encounters for social media. The Metropolitan and Kent Police have acknowledged this trend and are monitoring it actively.
You may also have heard that police operations are underway in several London boroughs to prevent incidents linked to this content and to protect young people from harm. Officers are increasing patrols near transport hubs and working with schools to identify and address risks. Police warn that encouraging or participating in harmful activity could result in criminal charges.
In line with advice from Kent Police, we are not sharing or circulating screenshots or videos of any of this social media content. Sharing these posts, even in warnings, can give them further attention and reinforce their visibility online.
We do think it is appropriate to share clear guidance with families. We ask that you speak with your child about this issue. We strongly advise that pupils do not attend or involve themselves in any gatherings or activities linked to this trend. Both the school and Kent Police will take robust action against pupils who are found participating, encouraging others, or promoting this type of content.
Please support your child by:
- Talking with them about what they may see online and the risks involved.
- Reviewing privacy and safety settings on social media apps to reduce exposure to harmful content.
- Reminding them that sharing or forwarding posts that encourage harm or unsafe behaviour is not acceptable.
Within the academy we will continue to monitor concerns through our safeguarding systems and remain in contact with local police. Our senior leadership team will maintain a visible presence in the community as part of our routine safeguarding practice. We will reinforce our behaviour expectations with pupils in assemblies and tutor time.
If you have any concerns or become aware of information that may help us keep pupils safe, please contact the academy directly or use the safeguarding reporting system on our website.
We take the safety and welfare of pupils seriously, both in the academy and in the wider community. We will act decisively in response to any pupil behaviour that places others at risk.
Kind regards
Mr M Gore
Principal
