Class WhatsApp groups are set up by the parents for the parents. It is a great way of communicating easily with the whole class and can help everyone get to know each other. However, they can sometimes get a bit overwhelming. So, the PTA have put together a short set of guidelines to keep in mind when sharing with the group.

Thank you for taking the time to read these through and for your continued support of the PTA. Class WhatsApp groups are set up by the parents for the parents. It is a great way of  communicating easily with the whole class and can help everyone get to know each other. However, they can sometimes get a bit overwhelming. So, the PTA have put together a short set of guidelines to keep in mind when sharing with the group.

—  Please remember that these groups are created purely as a convenient way to circulate important school information to parents, and also for parents to communicate easily with one another regarding class matters e.g. homework.

—  It is NEVER acceptable to use the group to raise complaints about the school, or teachers. If you have a problem please speak to the class teacher, your PTA rep, or Mr Ó Néill. The group should not be used to share gossip or private messages. Do not use inappropriate language, personal attacks or insulting messages. There is a clear procedure in place for you to address any problems, or concerns you may have.

—  The school website is a hive of information – please refer to it where possible for the answers to your questions. Especially regarding the school calendar; www.guardianangels.ie. It is also important to read the monthly newsletter for key dates, and upcoming events.

—  Your PTA rep is a parent just like you – they are here to help, but please do not use their numbers to contact them directly with queries that could be resolved by using the general PTA email address (ptaguardianangels@gmail.com), particularly during the night, weekend, and school holidays. Obviously, there are times where you will need to text before or after school, but where possible, please try and keep texts within school hours.

—  It is unnecessary for everyone to answer everything, unless a response is requested. Likewise, when someone does respond, there is no need for everyone to reply their thanks. Although it may seem like the polite thing to do, think of it as a noticeboard rather than a conversation and be reminded that some parents may be on 3 or 4 of these groups and can potentially get hundreds of messages a day!

—  If your message is not relevant to the majority of the group, please consider sending an individual or separate group message. At times a conversation can start within the limits of the group, but can stray off into a conversation better suited to a separate forum.

—  Inappropriate use may result in the admin removing you from the group.

Last updated: APRIL 2025