A National Reset on Mobile Phone Use in Schools
The Department for Education has announced strengthened national guidance on mobile phone use in schools, setting out a clear expectation that all schools should now operate phone‑free environments throughout the entire school day. This update reflects growing concerns about the impact of mobile phones on children’s learning, behaviour, and wellbeing, and aims to provide schools and families with clarity and consistency.
Why this change is being made
School leaders across the country have seen first-hand how technology can affect pupils’ focus, safety, and social interactions. While many schools already have strong policies in place, the Government has recognised that previous guidance did not go far enough in establishing a clear national position.
The strengthened guidance now states that mobile phones should not be used at any point during the school day — including lessons, transitions, breaktimes, and lunchtime. This also means phones should not be used as calculators or for research in lessons.
The aim is to remove ambiguity, support firm and confident leadership, and ensure that parents understand and back the expectations set by schools.
What this means for schools
Schools are expected to have clear, robust mobile phone policies and to apply them consistently across all classes and at all times. To support this, Ofsted will for the first time look at both a school’s mobile phone policy and how effectively it is implemented when assessing behaviour during inspections.
The Department for Education acknowledges that embedding change takes time. Attendance and Behaviour Hub lead schools, all of which already operate successful phone‑free approaches, will be available to support schools that may benefit from additional guidance. These schools have helped develop practical, evidence‑based strategies that can be adapted to different contexts.
Supporting children’s wellbeing beyond the school gates
This announcement forms part of a wider national effort to improve children’s relationship with technology and social media. The Government will soon launch a public consultation on children’s use of technology at home and in the community, inviting families, educators, and professionals to share their insights.
A shared commitment
The Department for Education emphasises that clear, fair, and consistently applied boundaries give pupils the best chance to learn, feel safe, and thrive. Schools are encouraged to feel confident in setting and enforcing these expectations, knowing they have national backing.
As a school community, we will continue to work together to ensure that technology supports our young people’s education and wellbeing - never distracts from it.
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