It includes some useful features on managing screen time and WhatsApp. In addition to this, we also want to draw your attention to Anonymous social media Apps which we are starting to see become more popular with our students again.

They are often used by teenagers, but due to the nature of these apps, young people can be exposed to grooming and cyberbullying. 

Back in June 2019 YOLO was top of the App Store chart, and became very popular amongst children at secondary schools. However, YOLO is rated as 17+ in the app store, which means you should be at least 17 years old to download this app.

YOLO is an acronym for ‘you only live once.’  In YOLO, users request to "send me anonymous questions" which then posts the request in Snapchat (via their Snapchat story or to a group of friends). All questions are then sent via YOLO anonymously.

The NSPCC have issued a warning about this app as it can clearly be misused to send abusive or upsetting messages (Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-48214413).

Due to the nature of this app we would highly recommend that the age rating of this app is adhered to.

If you would like more information about what anonymous apps are and tips on how to support your child, please click on the link below to access a parental guide:

https://www.internetmatters.org/resources/anonymous-apps-guide-what-parents-need-to-know/

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Head of year or a member of the safeguarding team.

Mr Paul Walton

Director of Inclusion & Designated Safeguarding Lead