We asked parents for their views about a new, stricter approach to pupils and mobile phones. Around 100 parents told us their views. These parents think that smartphones should not be allowed for primary age children:

• strong support for banning smartphones in school
• preference for brick style phones, if parents think there is a safety reason, like walking to and from school
• concerns about peer pressure
• support for strict enforcement and confiscation in school
• worries about the negative impact of smartphones on learning and child development.

 

Many parents agree that smartphones should not be allowed in primary schools, emphasising concerns about online safety, mental health, peer pressure, and distractions caused by smartphones. The belief is that primary school children are not mature enough to use smartphones responsibly. Several parents are part of or support movements advocating for a smartphone-free childhood, highlighting the negative impacts of smartphones on young children.

 

Some parents support the use of simple, non-smart "brick" phones for children who need a phone for safety reasons, like walking to and from school. However, there are differing views on whether even these should be allowed during school hours.

 

A recurring concern is the peer pressure children feel if they do not have a phone, particularly when other pupils have smartphones. Parents express that banning all phones or strictly limiting their use could reduce this pressure.

 

Many parents back the idea of strict enforcement of phone rules, including confiscation of phones if they are seen or heard during school hours. Some even suggest harsher penalties, such as longer confiscation periods or fines.

 

While parents agree that children don't need phones during school hours, some highlight the need for phones for safety reasons during travel to and from school. They suggest the school ensure that confiscated phones are returned before students leave school grounds. Other parents suggest using alternative tracking devices like 'AirTags' for monitoring children’s safety without giving them phones.

 

Parents think that smartphones are a major distraction, even at home, that can interfere with learning and focus. Parents worry about the impact of smartphones on children's social skills, emotional intelligence, and overall development.

 

Several parents advocate for the school to teach children about the dangers of smartphones and social media, especially regarding addiction, cyberbullying, and online safety. Some also suggest parent education sessions.

 

We will publish our final policy next week and start enforcing the changes after half-term, from Monday 4th November.