Parents' use of social media

In short

Parent WhatsApp and social media groups are not run by the school, and you are welcome to join in. The school asks that social media not be used to run campaigns or air grievances about the school, staff, parents or students. If you have a concern, take it to the teacher first, then the phase coordinator, then the Head of School.

Parent groups

Many people take part in online activities and social media. There are various online school groups organised and managed by parents for parents, such as WhatsApp groups, and these can be a source of knowledge, support and advice.

These are not school sponsored, but the school encourages you to join in and participate positively if you wish.

What the school asks

The school asks that you remain aware when discussing school life online.

Social media, whether public or private, should not be used to fuel campaigns and voice complaints against the school, school staff, parents or students.

KSIM states that it takes very seriously the inappropriate use of social media by a parent to publicly humiliate or criticise another parent, pupil or member of staff.

Where to take a concern instead

If you have any concerns about your child in relation to the school, do not use social media to air them. Instead:

1. Initially contact the class or homeroom teacher.
2. If the concern remains, contact the phase coordinator.
3. If still not resolved satisfactorily, contact the Head of School directly.

See complaints procedures and who to contact for what.

What the school considers inappropriate online

• Identifying or posting images/videos of students
• Abusive or personal comments about staff, students or other parents
• Bringing the school into disrepute
• Posting defamatory or libellous comments
• Emails circulated or sent directly with abusive or personal comments about staff or students
• Using social media to publicly challenge school policies, or to discuss issues about individual children
• Threatening behaviour, such as verbally intimidating staff, or using bad language
• Breaching school security procedures

The school states that it takes its safeguarding responsibilities seriously and will deal with any reported incidents appropriately, in line with the actions set out in the code of conduct for parents & caregivers.