Rationale

Many parents and carers share concerns about the use of mobile phones and the pressures on young people to have one.  There are also significant concerns in emerging research about the potential risks associated with negative social media interactions and exposure to inappropriate online content.

As a school, we strongly urge families to delay purchasing a mobile device (‘smart’ or ‘brick) for their child, or not buy one at all.  Smartphones are not required to access any part of our curriculum or school day. We believe that an all phone-free environment encourages better focus, better social connection, and improved wellbeing. However, we also recognise the importance of balancing these concerns with the needs of families who wish their children to have phones for use before and after school, for travel and staying in touch with family and friends.

With this in mind, from September 2025, we introduced a mobile phone pouch system. This approach enables students to bring their phones to school, if they have them, while keeping them securely stored in a locked pouch throughout the day. This ensures all phones remain inaccessible during lessons and school hours, minimising distractions and supporting learning. At the end of the day, students can access their devices for use during their journey to and from school, should parents wish them to do so.

Students with confirmed medical needs that require phone access can apply for a medical pouch which has a discreet, non-lockable seal.

Our approach supports focused learning, reduces distractions and allows students to fully engage with the opportunities available at school. Our aim is to create space in the school day for students to concentrate on learning, conversation, and real-life interaction with their peers and school staff.

Here’s how our phone pouch system works

1. On arrival – Students unlock their pouch by placing it on an unlocking station. Students then switch off their phones, place their phone in the Yondr phone pouch and lock it, then put it in their bag.
2. During the day – Phones remain locked in the pouch and secured in bags throughout the day.
3. End of day – At the end of the school day, students unlock their pouches at an unlocking station and retrieve their phone, carefully closing the pouch afterwards to ensure it is locked.

Watch the video below to see the pouch system in action. For more information, see our mobile phone policy on our policies page