Google to Remove UK and Irish School Reviews from Google Maps
Google has agreed to remove all user comments and ratings of UK and Irish schools from Google Maps. The decision comes after a petition organized by a Merseyside teacher, who aimed to bring an end to often spiteful and outdated online reviews and star ratings left by Google users about primary and secondary schools.
The move will result in thousands of reviews and ratings disappearing, including one-star reviews of prestigious schools such as Eton, which was labeled “horrible”. The decision is seen as a small win for parents, who will now have access to more reliable information about nearby schools.
The ban on new reviews and ratings was introduced in 2019, but headteachers claim it has been patchy, with reviews still being left for some schools. The change will now be enforced, with all existing reviews and ratings being removed and users unable to submit new ones.
The decision will not apply to preschools or universities. The move is aimed at preventing unhelpful or prank reviews, which have been a problem for many schools. The change will bring relief to Britain’s more prestigious schools, which have been subject to negative reviews.
The removal of reviews will make it easier for parents to make informed decisions about which school to choose. The decision is seen as a step in the right direction, and headteachers are welcoming the change.