The ban on phones in schools

You may have heard it in the news or from your teachers in the classroom— the UK government has officially backed a ban on mobile phones in schools. But what does this mean for you as a student? Here at IXL Tutors we will break this down on how this may impact you going forward.  

In early 2024, the government released new guidance encouraging all schools in England to ban the use of mobile phones during the school day — not just in class, but also during break and lunch times.  

The aim? To cut down distractions, reduce bullying, and improve learning. The current Labour government has also continued to back this and will work with the previous government on getting this through parliament.  

Conservatives push for ban on phones in schools – BBC News 

Some schools already had strict phone policies, while others were a bit more relaxed. Now, the government wants consistency across the board in all schools.  

Why are phones being banned?  

Here are the main reasons behind the move to ban all phones in schools: 

• Fewer Distractions: The ban aims to help students stay focused on learning and to avoid using social media within the classroom.  

• Less Bullying: Unfortunately, phones can be used for cyberbullying or filming things that shouldn’t be shared. Reducing phone access helps keep school a safer space and avoid the need for intervention throughout the day.  

• Better Sleep & Mental Health: Experts say cutting down on screen time (especially during the day) can improve your concentration and mental well-being. 

What does this mean for you?  

If your school didn’t already ban phones through their own internal policies, you might now have to: 

• Keep your phone in your bag or locker all day. 

• Leave it at home altogether. 

• Hand it in at the start of the day and get it back at home time. 

Currently there are schools which do already enforce one of these but also ensure communication between student and guardian is also allowed through emergency contact details and Head of Years being aware of any exceptions.  

What do teachers think?  

Some teachers believe that this is a positive step for schools to ensure that student behaviour is better managed as they believe phones are the reason for a large proportion of classroom disruption. Other teachers think that this will encourage more focus in lessons without the need to check their messages – however research has not suggested that banning phones would improve grades.  

On the other hand, other teachers believe that this is a missed learning opportunity for students to engage in online learning or quick-fire quizzes such as KAHOOT. They believe there should be lessons around managing digital skills and tech management rather than banning them all together. As we do live in a digital world.  

Overall  

With the bigger picture in mind, we believe it is important to have a blend of digital learning whilst managing social media access during the school day. A workaround could be better investment into digital equipment in schools to still be able to access digital skills when learning.  

Some students and educators argue that, when used responsibly, mobile phones can enhance learning. From using apps for revision and research to organising homework or even learning how to use digital tools for future careers, phones have a lot of potential in the classroom. They can help develop independence, digital literacy, and real-world problem-solving skills.  

The “Ban” is about trying to better manage technology within our lives and to encourage students to switch off and engage with learning.  

What are your thoughts on the potential “ban” of mobile phones in schools? Let us know your thoughts…  

IXL Tutors