High School strengthens mobile phone policy

Newtown High School has announced an updated mobile phone policy, which recognises the importance of mobile phones as learning tools but also places new restrictions on unacceptable usage.

The new policy was announced in a letter to parents and guardians from Assistant Headteacher, Mr R Burkin.

Going into effect today, the new policy was designed based on experiences and guidance from local and national educational bodies.

The new policy recognises the importance of mobile phones as learning tools, but also specifies acceptable and non-acceptable mobile phone use within the school premises.

It covers scenarios ranging from classroom usage to recreational times.

Key points

Acceptable uses of mobile phones include accessing educational apps, conducting research as directed by teachers, and liaising with family and friends during specified times. Non-acceptable uses encompass taking photos or videos without permission, engaging in inappropriate messaging, and using social media apps without authorisation.

The policy outlines sanctions for misuse of mobile phones, including confiscation, detentions, and escalating bans for repeated violations with even the option for a indefinite ban.

In the letter, Mr Burkin said:

"With the above in mind, we do not wish to ban mobile phones at Newtown High School but we are in need of tightening rules and sanctions surrounding their usage. The misuse of mobile phones is a problem within school, we must stress this is from a minority of our students but the impact is enough for us to action."

"As a school we greatly appreciate your support on this matter, with so many schools having complete bans on mobile phones or significant constraints regarding their usage we at Newtown High School are looking to find the best balance that suits both our learners, parents and the school.".

The new policy can be found here.