UK Teachers Advocate for Social Media Restrictions for Children Under 16
Following Australia’s recent ban on social media for children under 16, educators in the UK are pressing the government to consider similar measures. They argue that limiting access to these platforms is essential for maintaining student focus in schools and safeguarding mental health.
The National Education Union (NEU), as reported by the PA Media Agency, has called for new legislation that would require major tech companies to restrict access to their platforms for younger users. The union warns that unrestricted social media use contributes to violent behavior in schools and exposes children to harmful content, negatively impacting their mental well-being.
Matt Wrack, the union's general secretary, stated:
"Teachers encounter the fallout from a social media environment that is ill-suited for children. Tech companies have shown little inclination to act responsibly without regulatory pressure. To genuinely protect children’s mental health and address behavioral issues in schools, a legal ban for those under 16 is urgently needed."
This appeal follows earlier warnings from Ofsted, the UK’s schools regulator, which indicated that social media adversely affects children's concentration and fosters disrespectful behavior in educational settings.
A survey conducted by the NEU, involving 5,800 teachers in 2025, revealed that 81% observed an increase in violent behavior and bullying among students, with 59% linking these issues directly to social media use.
As concerns grow regarding the influence of social media on young people, the conversation in the UK appears to be shifting toward potential legislative action aimed at creating a safer and more focused educational environment.
