Disturbing "school wars" trend reaches Peterborough as social media post promotes "fight dates"
The council and police have moved to reassure parents across Peterborough over a disturbing social media trend known as ‘school wars’.
Thought to have originated in London via TikTok and Snapchat, the trend has now spread to Peterborough – with social media posts dividing several local secondary schools into ‘red and ‘blue’ teams.
One such post, seen by the Peterborough Telegraph, encourages pupils from years 8, 9 and 10 to meet up on several dates in March to engage in battles – with others allegedly promoting the use of weapons.
However, police say there is no evidence yet that such meetings are taking place.
Paston and Walton councillor Alex Rafiq was alerted to one post by a resident. Sharing it on social media to raise awareness, he said: “Parents please keep an eye on your kids and their social media activities – I have been sent this today from a resident which appears to be students at schools setting up potential fights/battles with other schools.”
Some parents say their children’s school has sent out an email to alert families, and to reassure them they are actively discussing the matter with pupils. But other parents have taken to social media to claim their schools are not taking it seriously enough, with concerns the trend may not be a ‘hoax’.
Councillor Katy Cole, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, at the council, said: "We are aware of messages such as this being shared on social media across the country and are working with partners including the police to make sure local schools and colleges have the advice and guidance they need to best support all children, young people and their parents/carers.
"As yet there have been no reports of any issues locally, but it is important parents/carers are aware so they can monitor their children's social media use and contact schools if they have concerns."
A Cambs Police spokesperson added: “We are aware of social media posts circulating online concerning gatherings of young people from local schools.
“There is nothing at this stage to suggest these gatherings are going to take place, but our officers are working closely with schools concerning the content and reassurance patrols will be put in place.”