MP calls for ban on video app TikTok after students post ‘sexual and offensive’ content at school

Disturbing footage of students filming lewd and offensive content on a mobile app has sparked calls for schools to ban phones.

Several of Adelaide’s most prestigious schools have confirmed they’re aware of footage on popular video app TikTok featuring their students in uniform.

Videos on the app obtained by Seven News show students at school filming content ranging from offensive to dangerous.

Some clips show students using offensive language and simulating sexually explicit acts in the classroom while others filmed in the playground show dangerous stunts being performed from diving into bushes to running head-on into bins.

The footage prompted concerns from Labor shadow education minister Jayne Stimson, who wants to implement a ban on mobile phones in schools. 

‘Parents raised this issue with me, concerned about what their own kids are getting up to at school,’ Ms Stimson posted on Facebook.

Her proposed ban sparked a divided reaction online.

‘Thinking that removing phones will stop this behaviour is naive and short sighted. Children have been acting inappropriately for eternity, the only difference now is we can call them out on it because of all the evidence they leave behind. Taking their phones away won’t stop the behavior, it’ll just stop teachers and parents from finding out,’ one woman posted.

Another added: ‘It’s harmless fun, at least they are at school.’ 

Some videos on the app show students simulating sexual and explicit acts in the classroom

Xavier College took immediate action when it became aware of students featured in videos last term.

The action included counselling and disciplinary measures.

‘The incident highlights the need to continue our ongoing educative process of equipping our young people to be more responsible and safe users of all technology,’ a spokeswoman told Seven News.

Xavier College’s mobile phone policy available on the school’s website states devices will be confiscated if students are found to be using them inappropriately.

‘Further disciplinary action will be taken should the student re-offend,’ the policy states. 

SA shadow education minister Jayne Stimson (pictured left with former prime minister Julia Gillard) wants to enforce a ban on mobile phones in schools after viewing disturbing videos

Immanuel College, an exclusive boarding school in Adelaide is also aware of footage of students on the popular app.

‘As soon as we became aware at Immanuel that there were TikToks on the app in which our students were featured, we communicated with our full student body to ensure that they understood this was against our policies and that there was a significant privacy risk for students,’ Steve Blight said.

Some believe a mobile phone ban isn’t the answer.

Education Minister John Gardner said the department supports schools enforcing phone bans, but doesn’t believe a blanket ban will address the problem. 

Launched in late 2017, TikTok has more than 500 million active users worldwide.

Popular video app TikTok has taken the online world by storm in the last two years

The app describes itself as the destination for short-form mobile videos with a mission to ‘capture and present the world’s creativity, knowledge, and precious life moments.’

Daily Mail Australia has contacted TikTok for comment. 

It comes as Western Australia announced a ban on mobile phone use during school hours at public schools.

Students will also be prohibited from using smart watches, ear buds and tablets during class.

Those who contravene the rules will be forced to hand over the device to be returned at the end of the day.

There will be some exemptions including students being allowed to confirm shifts with their after-school employer.

Education minister Sue Ellery believes the ban will reduce distraction from studies and encourage face-to-face social interaction.