Mobile phones

Mobile Phones and Our Smart Phone Free School

At Coombe Hill Junior School we are committed to creating a safe, calm and focused learning environment. To support this, we are a smart phone free school. This approach protects pupils’ wellbeing, reduces distractions and helps children build healthy habits around technology and social interactions.

Why we are a smart phone free school

Research continues to show the impact that early access to smart phones can have on sleep, concentration, friendships and emotional wellbeing. Smart phones can expose children to risks such as online bullying, inappropriate content or pressure from social media. By removing smart phones from the school day, we help children feel present, engaged and ready to learn.

Being a smart phone free school also supports our wider work on:

• safeguarding and online safety

• emotional regulation and wellbeing

• positive face to face interactions

• reducing anxiety linked to messages or group chats

• creating a calm and respectful school culture
  
  

What this means for pupils

Pupils should not bring smart phones to school. If a child needs to walk independently or families need them to have a basic phone for safety, this must be arranged with the school office. Any such phone must be a simple call only device and it will be stored securely during the school day.

Pupils are encouraged to speak to a trusted adult if they need to contact home at any time. They will always be supported.

What this means for families

We ask families to support this approach by:

• ensuring pupils do not bring smart phones into school

• modelling positive device use at drop off and collection by being present and available to greet children

• talking with their child about healthy online habits and setting clear boundaries at home

• contacting the school office directly if a message needs to be passed on rather than sending a device with a pupil

Supporting a smart phone free environment helps children build stronger friendships, feel less pressured by online interactions and develop confidence in talking face to face.

Working together

Creating a safe and focused learning community is a shared responsibility. Our smart phone free approach is designed to protect pupils, promote wellbeing and help them thrive socially and academically. We appreciate the support of all families in making this a success.

If you have any questions about this policy or would like to discuss your child’s needs, please contact the school office or the inclusion team.