Schools in South Australia will be told to avoid posting online images of individual students or students in swimming gear under revised guidelines for using social media.
The new policy says photos of any children must not include any names or reveal any personal information when posted on websites.
It cautions schools that nothing is private on social media and warns that the internet does not provide the privacy or control assumed by many users.
"Once you post, it is potentially there forever, even if your privacy settings are such that access is limited," the policy says.
"Remember, the privacy policy of a social media site may change without your knowledge."
Education Minister Grace Portolesi said social media could be a great way for schools to communicate and actively engage parents, staff students and their broader community.
"It is up to schools to choose whether they want to use social media as an extra way of engaging with their community," she said.
"This can include online blogs, interactive Facebook pages and chat forums.
"These guidelines give clear advice on how to do this while ensuring students and teachers are protected from any potential issues."
The South Australian Primary Principals Association said the guidelines could impact on schools publicly acknowledging the achievements of students. But it also said it was important to have guidelines to help schools maximise the benefits of social media and make them aware of specific problems that might occur.
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