School Sends Out Warning Letter Over WhatsApp

Bemahague School has sent a letter to Year 7 parents raising serious concerns about alleged online bullying in a WhatsApp group chat called ‘Bemma 2024/25’.

The group, described as ‘unofficial’ and nothing to do with the school, has been flagged for hosting some seriously worrying behaviour.

According to the letter, this includes foul language, threats of violence, extreme insults, and even indecent images.

School bosses said the majority of these antics are happening outside school hours, often late at night.

Following several incidents, an assembly was held to remind students that WhatsApp has a minimum age of 13 (spoiler: Year 7s are mostly 11 or 12).

Students were told to leave the group immediately, and the school has spoken directly to its creators and their parents.

The letter also referenced Isle of Man legislation, warning that some of the messages could cross legal lines, being grossly offensive or harmful.

Parents have been urged to keep an eye on their kids’ phones, especially if they’re using WhatsApp.

Bemahague says it’s ‘horrified’ by the messages and is bringing back the Isle of Man Safer Schools App to help families tackle online safety.

They’ve even included a handy leaflet to help parents talk to their kids about this sort of thing.

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture has been approached for comment.