Mobile Phones & Digital Devices
Our approach to dealing with Mobile Phones and Digital Devices in school
We fully understand that children rely heavily on their mobile phones and that parents and carers find it reassuring to know that their child has a phone for safety and ease of contact. However, we also recognise that phones and other digital devices can be a distraction from learning and from positive, face-to-face interaction.
At St Ambrose Barlow, we are committed to creating a calm, safe and focused environment where every young person can flourish. Our approach is rooted in our values of Love, Learn and Lead.
Phone-free school
Mobile phones and communication-enabled wearable technology are not permitted to be used anywhere on the school site. This applies before school, during the school day and after school, including break and lunchtime, educational visits and school activities.
This includes mobile phones, smart watches with communication functions, AirPods and other wireless or communication-enabled devices.
All pupils are provided with a phone pouch. Pupils must bring their phone pouch to school every day and secure their phone or other communication-enabled device inside it. The phone pouch must remain safely stored in their school bag throughout the school day.
Phones may only be used once pupils have left the school site.
Pupils who do not follow the system
Pupils are expected to follow the phone pouch procedures and cooperate with staff instructions.
Pupils who use, access, conceal or deliberately attempt to circumvent the phone-free system will be dealt with in accordance with the school's Behaviour Policy. Serious or repeated breaches may result in suspension.
Pupils are responsible for looking after their phone pouch. Lost or deliberately damaged pouches will require a £20 replacement charge.
Contacting home during the day
If pupils need to contact their parents or carers during the school day, they must do so through the school office or a member of staff. They must not make contact themselves by mobile phone.
Parents and carers should also contact the school rather than contacting their child directly on their mobile phone during the school day. This ensures that any concerns can be dealt with appropriately and that the adults responsible for the child know what is happening.
Thank you
Thank you for your continued support with the safety, wellbeing and education of our young people at St Ambrose Barlow.
Please speak to your child about bringing their phone pouch to school every day and following our phone-free expectations. By working together, we can create a safe, calm and focused learning environment where our young people can Love, Learn and Lead.
