Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson recently shared further guidance strongly encouraging the banning of mobiles phones in schools.
Incidentally, schools are also advised to not let children use phones as calculators or for research in lessons, while teachers shouldn’t use phones in front of students.
Ofsted will also be inspecting schools on the implementation of their mobile phone policies.
Previously, phone use was discouraged in schools but newer guidance restricts use even more, saying pupils should not have access to phones throughout the day including during lessons, the time between lessons, break and lunch.
Astrea Academy Netherwood and Ernulf Academy has also already banned phones, which are collected in the morning and placed in a secure location during the school day.
Principal Andy Downing said once students are reunited with their phones in afternoon form time, they are asked to put them in their bags until they have left the school premises.
“We have found that, with this clear boundary in place, students are happier and are developing the art and pleasure of communicating face-to-face with their peers, free from the distraction of phones.”
Thomas Fisher, Principal at Ernulf Academy, said: “I welcome the announcement by the Government that supports a mobile phone ban.
“We have taken the decision to remove phones at our school because we think this enhances and helps children to focus and learn.
“We have had positive feedback from parents and children since using a total mobile ban policy at school.”
Principal of Astrea Academy Woodields, David Scales, spoke to BBC Radio Sheffield on the new guidance.
