EDUCATION SECRETARY LAUNCHES REVIEW INTO SCHOOL SMARTPHONE BANS – Phillipson has reportedly become frustrated by the lack of oversight on whether schools are following the guidance or finding it beneficial
Bridget Phillipson is set to launch a detailed review of smartphone bans in English schools amid growing pressure from MPs to address the impact of social media on teenagers.
The Education Secretary will oversee a study monitoring a select group of schools to evaluate the effectiveness of existing guidance on mobile phone restrictions. Additionally, for the first time, the Department for Education will conduct an in-depth analysis of the national behaviour survey to identify the most successful strategies for enforcing bans and the challenges schools face.
Current guidance advises that “all schools should prohibit the use of mobile phones throughout the school day – not only during lessons but during break and lunchtimes as well.” However, it does not specify how schools should implement or enforce these bans.
Phillipson has reportedly become frustrated by the lack of oversight on whether schools are following the guidance or finding it beneficial. Despite this, the government does not plan to introduce legislation mandating phone bans, believing such a move would be complex and difficult to enforce.
The review will examine how many schools have implemented bans, the different enforcement methods—such as requiring students to store phones in lockers or bags—and the impact on student behaviour. Future national behaviour surveys will also include additional questions on smartphone use to gain further insights.
