Tuesday 30th June 2026
Dear Parents and Carers of years 5 and 6,
RE: Year 5 and 6 group chats
I would like to bring “Whatsapp” and also “Just Talk” mobile phone apps to your attention. Some children have come into school feeling concerned because of what has been communicated in some group chats and voice calls. They include the use of sexualised, discriminatory language and insults. Problems extend across many messages and over a considerable period. Some of this activity occurs late at night, when I’m sure you assume children are asleep. I will be speaking to children the who have been mentioned to me or who are members of the groups causing concern. If your child uses these apps, please could you look through their chats with them and offer support and advice, and if you need to, put in place further rules and safeguards.
Many children may have been invited into a chat and have not participated; some may have tried to calm the situation. I would like to thank them for this but also remind all children that if something goes wrong online, they should tell a trusted adult. I also want to thank the children who brought this problem to our attention.
I would like to remind parents that the recommended, minimum age for online communication applications varies between 13 and 16 years-old; and it is assumed that children under this age, use these services under the guidance of adults. I strongly urge parents and carers to monitor and speak with their children about the communication they are having.
As the e-safety officer and designated safeguarding lead, I am deeply concerned by this behaviour and will be speaking to families where I feel more guidance and supervision is necessary.
Inappropriate online behaviour has shown to have significant, negative effects on children’s wellbeing. It can lead to undue stress and worry. At such a critical time for our children preparing to go to secondary school, they need to feel safe and have the confidence to navigate their social lives online as well as real life.
We will continue to monitor the situation and welcome children to come forward to discuss any problems they are having. I am always happy to meet parents who have concerns so I can offer support and guidance to them.
Yours faithfully,
Kris Clark
Deputy Head Teacher