Headteachers across Britain are confronting a deeply concerning new social media challenge that is wreaking havoc in school corridors. The trend, known as 'Devious Licks' on TikTok, is encouraging a wave of antisocial behaviour, including acts of vandalism and, most alarmingly, pupils urinating on school property.
The situation has become so severe that school leaders have been compelled to issue urgent warnings to parents, pleading with them to discuss the serious consequences of such actions with their children. This isn't just petty mischief; it's a coordinated wave of destruction inspired by online clout.
What is the 'Devious Licks' Trend?
Originating on the video-sharing platform TikTok, the 'Devious Licks' trend involves students filming themselves committing acts of vandalism or theft within their schools. These videos are then uploaded to gain likes and shares. The term 'lick' is slang for a successful, often sneaky, steal.
While initially focusing on stealing small items, the challenge has rapidly escalated to more extreme and disgusting acts. The most recent and shocking development involves pupils not just damaging property, but urinating and defecating in school hallways and toilets, filming the entire act for online notoriety.
School Leaders Sound the Alarm
In strongly-worded letters sent home to families, headteachers have expressed their fury and disappointment. The message is clear: this behaviour is completely unacceptable and carries severe penalties.
Schools are treating these incidents with the utmost seriousness. Students identified as participating in the 'Devious Licks' trend are facing immediate sanctions, which can include fixed-term exclusions and being held financially responsible for the cost of repairs or deep cleaning.
Beyond punishment, schools are emphasising the profound health and safety risks posed by such biohazardous incidents, which create an unsafe and unhygienic environment for pupils and staff alike.
A Plea to Parents
The core of the schools' message is a direct appeal to parents and guardians. Educators are urging families to:
- Monitor their children's online activity, particularly their use of TikTok.
- Have open conversations about the real-world consequences of participating in dangerous online trends.
- Reinforce the values of respect and responsibility for their community and environment.
This partnership between home and school is seen as critical to stamping out this vile trend before it causes further damage and distress.
