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Kent and Sussex schools report positive early impacts a month after smartphone ban
Overview
Schools in Kent and Sussex have reported changes in pupil behaviour, improved engagement, and calmer learning environments one month after a nationwide restriction on smartphones came into force during the school day. While educators and some students have praised the policy for reducing distractions and improving real-life social interactions, researchers note that some studies question whether bans alone are sufficient to improve academic or mental health outcomes.
Key points
- Schools in Kent and Sussex report changes in student behaviour a month after a smartphone ban was introduced for the school day.
- Teachers note that students are more engaged, attentive, calmer, and increasingly aware of the dangers of mobile phones.
- Some primary schools allow basic mobile phones without internet access for older pupils walking home alone, but aim to protect children from social media and inappropriate material during school hours.
- A University of Birmingham study previously found no difference in grades or mental health between pupils at schools with phone bans and those without, though high smartphone use remains linked to poorer outcomes.
- Students shared positive views, noting that the ban helps prevent online bullying and encourages real-life friendships instead of interactions on social media platforms.