Dear Parents/Carers 
Safe use of Social Media
I am writing to you regarding the use of social media by some children. As you may be aware, this can and has created some peer-related problems within our school pupils, including more recently, and often leads to behaviour problems and social and emotional distress for those children involved.
In the last few years, the growth in the use of social media sites has been huge: TikTok, SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, online gaming, WhatsApp and YouTube being the most popular, many of which have age rating of 13+.
Although these sites are very worthwhile if used appropriately, they can cause a number of problems when they are used for inappropriately. This can lead to arguments and unkind behaviour, as well as mental health implications and self-esteem issues for victims. As you will no doubt be aware, our digital footprint is with us for life and that what is posted online, even within private messages, can have a detrimental impact.
It is crucial that we work with you, the parents and carers of our young people, to ensure that all children are safe on-line and use these forms of communication in an appropriate and respectful way. Continuing to closely monitor children’s activities on social media and other on-line sites is very much recommended.
As a school, we continue to speak with and teach the children about the importance of staying safe online; using social media responsibility and alerting a trusted adult to any worries, concerns and difficulties they might have. This work includes:
• Continuing, through PSHE and assemblies, to educate students of the dangers of inappropriate use of the internet
• Referring anything that we believe could be defined as, or could potentially lead to, a Child Protection issue to the appropriate external agencies
• Continuing to support parents with advice on how to tackle inappropriate use either by their own child or others I hope that you find this document, the links below and those on our website useful.

It is recommended that all families have an open and frank discussion about the use of social media platforms their children may be using. By working together, as outlined in this letter, I trust that we can keep all our children safe and happy.

Yours sincerely

Miss E Davies

Digital Learning Lead

St James Primary