Guidelines for ‘smartphone-free’ school settings

A COUNCIL has issued new guidance encouraging schools to ban mobile phones and parents not to provide smartphones to under14s, calling them a “distraction and a source of harm’

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Dorset Council says it has developed the guidance with the support of school leaders, young people and the Dorset Education Board.

‘The Liberal Democrat-run authority has issued guidelines for “smartphone-free environments” in first and primary schools, and best practice for middle and secondary schools.

It said in a statement: “Recognising that most phone time happens beyond the school gates, the council is encouraging families to delay smartphone ownership until at least age 14, unless there is a specific need. For parents who want their child to be contactable on the journey to and from school, the guidance recommends basic ‘brick’ phones without internet access.

“Schools are also asked to make reasonable adjustments for pupils with medical, safeguarding or caring responsibilities.”