More schools embrace smartphone free approach

All primary schools in a Kent town have adopted a smartphone free policy for the new academic year.

The policy means smartphones are banned on all 17 primary school sites in Tunbridge Wells, as well as an upcoming ban for students in Year 7 and 8 from September 2027.

Smartwatches and other devices that have internet access will also be banned from the sites.

Exemptions will apply on medical grounds and primary school students in Year 5 and 6 at some sites will be permitted to bring in a "brick phone", if it has no internet access and is "necessary" for travel.

The schools said that the decision reflected strengthened national guidance from the Department for Education and growing evidence of the impact of smartphones on children's wellbeing and development.

A statement from all the headteachers said: "We are committed to creating safe, calm, and focused learning environments where every child can thrive."

It added that they expected all families to adhere to these expectations and to reinforce them at home.

If pupils are caught breaking the rule, their smartphone will be confiscated for seven days while their basic phone would be confiscated for 24 hours, the schools said.

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