"School Wars" or "Red vs Blue"

Dear Parent/Carer,

“School Wars” or “Red vs Blue”

We are writing to you regarding recent reports circulating locally and nationally via social media platforms about young people allegedly organising fights between schools. 

We understand this information may be concerning. Please be assured that we are taking this matter extremely seriously. The safety and wellbeing of our pupils remains our highest priority at all times.

We are working closely with neighbouring schools across the city to ensure a coordinated and consistent response. In addition, we are in direct communication with external partners, including West Midlands Police, who have provided the following update:

“We’re aware of reports in the West Midlands and nationally suggesting children from some schools are planning to take part in organised fights. We are speaking to schools locally and offering them support where necessary. We’d urge parents to speak to their children about their use of social media and other online platforms to ensure they are staying safe.”

In response to concerns raised, we are increasing senior staff presence at the front of school before and after the school day, sending the school minibus into the local community, enhancing staff visibility on duty during key transition times, and continuing to monitor the situation closely in partnership with the police and other schools.

We have spoken to all students and have reiterated how they can keep themselves safe and have encouraged them to return to school immediately or call the Police if they feel worried or concerned in the community. We have also reminded students of our high expectations around conduct in school and the community and the sanctions should a student be involved in any physical incidents, which would include serious sanctions in school and a referral to the Police. We are asking staff to report any concerns or issues raised immediately so we can deal with them promptly.

However, so far, we have heard nothing to suggest any of our students are, or intend to be, involved with such events. 

Students have been reassured that this is a national social media phenomenon and is not something initiated by Coventry students.  We continue to report any concerning social media posts to the social media platforms and the Police. 

We would also ask for your support. Please take time to speak with your child about their use of social media and remind them of the importance of making safe and responsible choices online. We encourage parents to monitor online activity and where appropriate to review your child's access to social media platforms with age restrictions - particularly where your child is not of the acceptable age for the platform. For further guidance, please visit the UK Safer Internet Website which you can access here. UK Safer Internet Centre

We will continue to act swiftly on any information shared with us and will update you if further action is required. In the meantime, should you have any immediate concerns about the safety of any children, we would ask you to contact the Police directly. 

Thank you for your continued support in helping us maintain a safe and calm environment for all members of our school community.

Yours sincerely,
Mrs E Wheller
Associate Principal