The school is aware and acknowledges that increasing numbers of adults and children are using social networking sites. These may include Facebook, Twitter, SnapChat, and Instagram and this list is not definitive.
The widespread availability and use of social networking guideline bring opportunities to understand, engage and communicate with audiences in new ways. We must be able to use these technologies and services effectively and flexibly. However, it is also important to ensure that we balance this with the mental well-being and safety of all its stakeholders and our school’s reputation. This policy and associated guidance are to protect staff and advise school leaders on how to deal with potential inappropriate use of social networking sites.
For example, our use of social networking guideline has implications for our duty to safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults. The policy requirements in this document aim to provide this balance to support innovation whilst providing a framework of good practices.
Social Networking Guidelines
- Must not be used to publish any content which may result in actions for defamation, discrimination, breaches of copyright, data protection or other claim for damages. This includes but is not limited to material of an illegal, sexual or offensive nature that may bring the school or its stakeholders into disrepute.
- Must not be used for the promotion of personal financial interests, commercial ventures or personal campaigns.
- Must not be used in an abusive or hateful manner.
- Must not be used for actions that would put school representatives in breach of school codes of conduct or policies relating to staff.
- Must not breach the school’s misconduct, equal opportunities or bullying and harassment policies.
- Must not be used to discuss or advise any matters relating to school matters, staff, pupils or parents.
- References should not be made to any staff member, pupil, parent or school activity/event unless prior permission has been obtained and agreed with the Principal.
- Staff and students should be aware that if their out-of-work /out–of–school activity causes potential embarrassment for the school or detrimentally affects the school’s reputation then the school is entitled to take disciplinary action.
- Violation of this policy will be considered gross misconduct and can result in disciplinary action being taken against the guilty.
- The school reserves the right to upload videos and pictures that they deem to be adequate on school social media platforms.
- The school does not take responsibility for students sharing their thoughts and views on any sensitive issues on any social media platform.