We have been made aware of a social media campaign called school wars with a list of red schools pitted against blue schools urging students in each of the schools to combine as one team in getting involved in physical assault with points for beating someone up from the opposite team of schools and extra points for filming it or robbing a child.

Schools in Birmingham are aware of the campaign which is being promoted on social media with no indication at present that this will take place. Schools are offering the necessary guidance and reassurance to children to refrain from getting involved and are being reminded to report any information and concerns to their school immediately. We are also sharing some helpful guidance for parents and carers to support your child as below:

How you can help:

• Speak with your child about staying away from any gatherings linked to this trend and the potential risks involved.
• Continue to uphold a vigilance in respect of your child's mobile phone use.
• Encourage your child to report any information or concerns through your school’s safeguarding reporting system.
• If parents and carers hear or see anything worrying, including online posts, please report this to the police via 101, and notify the school as soon as possible.

Our priority, as always, is ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all our students. Thank you for your continued support in helping us address this matter promptly and responsibly. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your school.

Finally, please feel free to reach out to me for any further information via email at Wasim.Arif@birmingham.gov.uk