Social media re school fights

You may have seen recent media coverage referring to an online trend sometimes described as “School Wars”, in which social media posts encourage confrontation between students from different schools. Although we do not want to draw unnecessary attention to this, it is important that we keep families fully informed about any safeguarding-related issues that gain momentum online, to ensure you have accurate information and clear advice. We kindly ask for your support by helping your child to stay clear of any online activity. 

We are working closely with our partner agencies, who are aware of this situation and are monitoring it carefully. Additional police presence may be put in place. Understandably, this may cause concern for some students and families, and we want to reassure you that the matter is being taken seriously. 

If you or your child becomes aware of any information that may assist the police, please report it by calling 101 or submitting information online. When doing so, quote Operation Cedarfield. In the event of an emergency, always call 999. 

Key points to share with your child: 

· Do not forward or share any of the circulating messages; doing so may be considered incitement. 

· Do not participate in any activities linked to these posts. 

Thank you in advance for your understanding and support in helping us keep our school community safe.

Commander Neerav Patel said:

“We’re aware of social media posts circulating and are in close contact with schools across several London boroughs to offer reassurance.

“Officers will maintain a strong, visible presence around schools, and will respond firmly to any reports of violence or disorder.

“We continue to closely monitor online spaces and have worked with platforms to request a dozen social media accounts to be disabled where threats or violence were planned or encouraged.

“I would like to remind young people of the serious consequences of getting involved in matters like this.  An arrest, charge and conviction for violence and carrying weapons could mean imprisonment with a significant long-term impact on future opportunities.”

Thank you

CI Alex Baldwin