Smartphone Free Policy

After careful consideration, consultation and in light of recently published guidance, we will be implementing a new policy regarding mobile phones in school from September 2025.

We will continue to adopt a ‘no phone’ policy. However, if a child walks a longer distance alone or has a split family (goes to a different house), they will be able to bring a non-smart phone, such as a basic ‘brick phone’ (no camera, no apps etc.). A Nokia 3210 is one example. This phone must still be handed into the school office during the school day.

Delaying smartphone use for children can help them develop essential life skills, reduce mental health issues, and protect them from harmful online content and cyberbullying. Early smartphone exposure can lead to addiction, sleep disruption, and decreased social skills, potentially impacting their emotional and mental well-being. 

How can parents contact and keep track of children when they’re out on their own if they don’t have a smartphone?

There are various ways to do this other than using smartphones. The Delay Smartphones website talks about some of the alternatives including smartwatches and simple phones.

What will happen once children reach secondary school /will most of their friends have smartphones?

This is why signing the pledge is so important!

Through the many conversations that have happened at Hextable it is very clear that many parents would prefer to delay the age at which their child gets a smartphone. 

By signing the pledge, parents are helping each other to know that their child will not be the only one without a smartphone.

You can click here to join our parent pact 

My child already has a smartphone / is getting one soon.

Every family will do what they believe is the right thing for their child. The pledge is intended to help those that would prefer to wait to realise they are not alone in their decision - there is no expectation that every parent will feel this way. It is about giving parents a choice about whether to get their child a smartphone or whether to wait, rather than trying to remove that choice from those that do want to get their child a smartphone at an earlier age.