Union Leader Calls for Action Against Social Media's Impact on Schools

Manny Botwe highlights the darker implications of technology in education at ASCL conference.

Manny Botwe, president of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), has raised alarm over the negative impact of smartphones and social media in educational settings, describing how these technologies are increasingly being 'weaponised' against schools and teachers.

In a speech delivered at the union’s annual conference, Botwe emphasized the 'chaos' resulting from social media, calling for a more rigorous accountability from technology platforms.

In a recent survey conducted by ASCL, 71% of teachers reported that pupils were using social media below the minimum age requirement.

This survey, which included the responses of 6,409 educators in England, revealed that over 43% of teachers observed negative comments made by parents about schools and staff on online platforms.

Additionally, 30% of secondary teachers noted signs of students accessing inappropriate content, including pornographic or violent material.

The survey highlighted significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of students, with 46% of secondary teachers stating that students had recorded staff or peers without consent.

Moreover, 11% reported instances of deepfake imagery or audio being used maliciously against individuals within the school environment.

Alarmingly, nearly three in four secondary teachers (73%) indicated that bullying by peers via social media was a common issue.

Botwe characterized the survey’s results as 'deeply troubling' and elaborated on the broader implications of technology on student relationships and mental health.

He remarked on the influence of social media, stating, 'It leaves a trail of harm – safeguarding concerns, fractured friendships, bullying, anxiety and the spread of extremist ideologies.' He emphasized that the current situation showcases a need for accountability from tech companies who profit while allowing negative consequences to proliferate.

During his address, Botwe also criticized the Government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill for its lack of cohesive vision, describing it as a 'smorgasbord of policies.' He expressed disappointment over the proposed funding for free breakfast clubs in primary schools, referring to a daily funding rate of 60p per pupil as 'absurd.' He stressed that this amount was insufficient for providing families with the nutritious childcare promised.

Concerns regarding teacher shortages and a perceived funding crisis in schools were also significant topics in Botwe’s speech, who claimed that there is inadequate support for children with special educational needs and disabilities amid a 'punitive' accountability system.

With recent announcements from Ofsted regarding a new grading system for schools, Botwe remarked that these developments could feel demoralizing for educators, urging the need for a system that offers support rather than high-stakes evaluation.

He called for a shift in focus from punitive measures to fostering collaboration within the school framework.