Parents please read: Andrew Tate
You may be aware from recent media coverage that there have been concerns raised regarding social media influencers, not solely, but in particular when it comes to their potential impact on boys and young men.
You may already be aware of one such individual, Andrew Tate, who describes himself as 'absolutely a misogynist’. There have been a number of recent stories which have related to his recent arrest and detainment in Romania on suspicion of human trafficking, rape and forming an organised crime group. It has become evident that many young men and boys have not been put off following Tate or being influenced by his negative messages. We are aware that some students are aware of Tate and the opinions he shares online.
Whilst some of Tate’s posts appear to focus on wellbeing and mental health, they are combined with deeply misogynistic, sexist, homophobic and violent material including:
- Saying that rape victims put themselves “in a position to be raped” and “must bear some responsibility”, claiming most do this for advancement in ‘opportunity’.
- Claiming mental illness makes people ‘weak’ and that depression ‘isn’t real’.
- Promoting gendered violence and misogyny on his podcast and posts about relationships.
- Saying "I'm a realist and when you're a realist you're sexist. There's no way you can be rooted in reality and not be sexist."
- Saying that there is no such thing as an independent female and that women belong to men.
It is clear that the content of Tate’s posts are directly in conflict with the messages and values we, at The Mountbatten School, believe should be shared with our community. We believe he portrays a negative role model for young men and boys and has shared very troubling stereotypes about women, those struggling with mental health and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Tate’s social media content has been banned from many social media platforms but there is still a possibility that your children will come across these messages when online. We would urge you to take the time to regularly monitor internet activity at home, as well as have open and honest discussions on this and other related topics.
This is an important safeguarding exercise that we know parents and carers will take seriously. As a school, the RSHE curriculum and our staff training are using strategies to educate our students about the dangers of Tate’s messages.
If you would like to talk to your child about this issue, this article from 'HOPE not Hate' will provide you with some additional information and context as to who Andrew Tate is. Bold Voices have produced an informative and helpful guide for parents to help them talk to their children about his posts and messages. Safer Schools have also provided further information and advice.
If you are concerned about this or have any other worries relating to your child, please contact their tutor. Students can also report any concerns they have for themselves, or others, using TooToot.
Exam time can be unsettling and stressful. It is important that young people feel strong and confident and are aware of how to revise.
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