This information has been prepared by our 318 Trust IT Director and Safeguarding lead, January 2026.
Important Safeguarding Information
We are raising awareness of image manipulation and “deepfakes” – technology that can create realistic but fake images of real people.
This is increasingly being misused to create inappropriate images of young people and staff in schools.
What you need to know:
– Creating manipulated explicit images of under-18s is a criminal offence
– Young people often do not understand the seriousness
– Any photo shared online can be copied, edited, and redistributed
– Both girls and boys can be victims
Please talk to your child about:
– Being careful what photos they share online
– Never creating or sharing manipulated images of others
– Reporting concerns to you or school staff
– Not forwarding images if they see them
If your child is affected:
– Contact our DSL immediately: Mrs Penny Lyall, or Deputy DSL’s Mrs Ceri Williams and Miss Jenny Darmanin.
– Stay calm and supportive – reassure them it is not their fault
– Do not view or forward any images
– We will work with you and appropriate agencies to support your child
If you have immediate concerns, please contact school.
Key Points for Follow-Up Questions:
Q: What if it was just a joke?
A: It is still illegal and causes real harm. The law does not have an exception for jokes.
Q: What if the person gave permission?
A: Creating explicit images of anyone under 18 is illegal, even with consent.
Q: What happens to someone who does this?
A: Serious school consequences (including exclusion), police involvement, and potentially a criminal record.
Q: What if I already saw/shared something?
A: Do not share it further. Delete it. Tell a trusted adult now.
Q: What if it is already everywhere online?
A: We can work with the Internet Watch Foundation to remove images. Report it.
