Social media are now almost indispensable in our society. At school, we have a ban on social media to ensure your focus remains on your studies – rather than on the notifications popping up on your phone or iPad. However, as a school, we also play a role in your development outside of school hours, and that's why we're happy to help you use social media wisely.
Social media also has pitfalls, which can lead to disadvantages with major consequences. These social media rules help you stay safe online and make good use of the digital world.
Rules of play: Good behaviour on social media
- During school hours, you may only use social media with permission from the school.
- Treat each other with respect. What is not allowed in real life is also not allowed online.
- Consider each other's feelings. Think about the effect anything you post might have on someone else.
- Remain critical. Not everything you read is true.
- Only post photos or videos of others if they give their consent.
- Only share photos and videos of yourself that you feel comfortable with.
- Is there something happening on social media that makes you feel uncomfortable? Talk to the adults around you. Even if you have questions.
- Do you receive a message that you really didn't want to see forwarded to you? If so, don't forward it; delete it straight away.
- Are you arguing with someone via social media? It's better to have the conversation in person. Can't do it yourself? Ask the people around you for advice.
- Do you notice someone being bullied online or are you the one being bullied? Report it at home and at school.
Tip! Think carefully about your account's privacy settings. Once something is online, it can remain visible forever. Even if you think you've deleted it.
What if it goes wrong after all?
Help wanted
Has someone hacked your account? Are you being bullied online? Or are you dealing with unwanted photos and videos? On helpwanted.nl Read more about all forms of online cross-border behaviour. Here you'll find tips to help you, and you can chat, email, or call an expert for free. You can even do this anonymously if you wish.
Meld button
Is something criminal happening? On meldknop.nl Read exactly how you can report to the police. Also, contact your mentor/coach so they are aware of the situation. Want to know more about what exactly is meant by a criminal offence? Have a look on the police website..
Tips for your parents/carers
The most important tip is actually very simple: keep talking to each other at home, including about social media. Make agreements together about your child's social media use and show interest by approaching the conversation openly. For example, ask what the best video your child has seen today is, what kind of accounts your child follows, and why your child likes those particular accounts so much. It is also good to discuss at home that not everything posted on social media is true straight away. Things are often made to look much better (or much worse) than reality. It is up to us as adults to ensure together that your child learns to be critical.
You can find helpful tips on shielding your profile, blocking certain content, and much more at mediawijsheid.nl.
The social media rules are based on the official social media protocol of Tabor College. The full protocol is here.