Union reps say there is “real concern” over videos posted on TikTok which appear to mock and abuse local teachers.
Dozens of accounts have been created on the social media platform which include content apparently targeting teachers in schools across Tayside and Fife.
They follow a similar trend reported nationwide of pupils using the video-based app to post “disgraceful abuse” aimed at school staff.
Dozens of accounts created
A Courier investigation found that dozens of accounts have been created for secondary schools in Tayside and Fife.
In one video teachers at one school are rated out of 10, with the creator using pictures of faculty members taken from from the school’s website.
Other videos appear to contain unfounded allegations of misconduct, as well alleging relationships between faculty members and also appearing to mock the personal appearance of teaching staff.
The Courier is not naming the individual schools affected so as not to direct readers to the content.
EIS Fife representative David Farmer said the videos were an insult to teachers who have worked hard throughout the pandemic.
He said: “I would sum up the feeling of teachers, particularly those who have been subjected to vilification and attack via TikTok, as real concern.”
“After everything that has happened during the pandemic, this is just an additional burden and threat that teachers could well do without.
“This just should not be happening.”
Teachers ‘shouldn’t have to face abuse’
The videos have also been criticised by local authorities, who said teachers should not have to face “fear of abuse” whilst doing their jobs.
A Dundee City Council spokesman said: “School staff should be able to go about their work without fear of abuse at any time.
“Schools work hard to discourage inappropriate uses of social media and we look to educate young people and families about these issues.
“We also work closely with school staff and offer support and guidance.
“Tik Tok is not available to pupils on school networks.”
A Perth & Kinross Council spokesman said: “Perth & Kinross Council wants our schools to be safe places for our children, young people and staff and do not tolerate bullying of any kind.
“When social media accounts contain defamatory statements or harass individuals – whether staff or pupils – they will be reported to the relevant platform. We understand TikTok has told teaching unions it is taking action against accounts that impersonate schools or staff.
“We would ask all parents to monitor their children online to ensure they are not engaging in behaviour that is harmful or exposing themselves to unsuitable material.
“Our staff are also advised to ensure their own social media accounts are set to the strictest privacy settings to prevent misuse of their photographs.”
Abuse on social media “taken very seriously”
Head of Education and Children’s Services at Fife Council Shelagh McLean said that any abuse on social media is taken very seriously.
She said: “Abuse on social media is sadly an issue that affects many people – not just our school communities. Tik Tok is another platform, which brings with it the same issues as other social media channels.
“Part of our job in schools is to equip children and young adults with the knowledge and skills to help them make good life choices and understand the consequences of their actions.
“We start talking to pupils about personal safety and internet safety at a young age in primary school. As well as using specific advice and visits from agencies including Police Scotland and the NSPCC, the issues and risks around the use of social media are covered in the learning children receive in school.
“All our schools are aware of the issues social media can cause and have systems in place to deal with any incidents, including taking steps to remove any online abuse and making sure those responsible understand the impact of their actions on others.”
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