For many schools, mobile phone bans are nothing new. A “see it, lose it” policy has long been the go-to approach for many. That was our approach, too, until we admitted it wasn’t really working.
Phones were still being used under desks, social drama fuelled by WhatsApp and Snapchat was making its way into lessons, and the more we clamped down, the more confrontational things got. It was clear we needed to try something different.
So, at the start of the last school year, we decided to go phone-free - properly phone-free. Students have to put their phones in lockable pouches and can’t access them until the end of the day.
It was a big shift and, yes, it came with a fair bit of noise, especially in the local press. But we stood firm, and as we come to the end of our first full year of being truly phone-free, we haven’t looked back.
Behaviour incidents involving phones have dropped by 90 per cent and reported cyberbullying has plummeted by 63 per cent.
Most importantly, students are telling us they feel happier and more relaxed. Our break and lunchtimes are now filled with actual conversation, spontaneous games of football and far more laughter. It’s not just been a policy change; it’s been a cultural reset.
So, if you’re about to go phone-free - or are thinking about it - here are six insights from our first year:
1. Launch with clarity, but keep the conversation going
We introduced the phone-free policy from day one of the school year, but we didn’t just drop it in cold. Alongside the launch, we ran six weeks of intensive engagement: face-to-face parent drop-ins, an information evening, an online session and regular updates.
We created an FAQ sheet and kept adding to it as questions came in. Showing that we were listening helped bring even the most sceptical families on board.
2. Be ready for the hard questions from parents
The biggest concern we heard was: “What if my child needs me during the day?” It’s a fair question, and we didn’t dodge it.
We made sure all pupils knew they could report worries to non-teaching staff who are always available, and we reassured parents we’d always make contact if needed. Once families understood this, their concerns began to ease.
3. Consistency is key
Some families and students assumed we might soften over time. But those who pushed hardest were also often the ones who settled quickest, once they saw we meant what we said.
The clear message was that this isn’t a gimmick or a short-term initiative. This is who we are now. That consistency brought calm.
4. Set clear consequences and follow them up
Following on from this, a big sticking point was what we’d do if students deliberately breached the policy. Our answer? Follow the consequences as laid out. No exceptions.
That clarity helped everyone: staff knew what to do, students knew where they stood and things settled down after two or three weeks. Don’t leave your boundaries open to interpretation.
5. Expect creative attempts to get around it
Yes, some students brought in decoy phones, and others attempted to pass off calculators as their phones.
We kept our sense of humour but also made it clear that the integrity of the policy mattered. Once students saw we were taking it seriously, most gave up on trying to find a loophole.
6. Focus on what you’re giving back
Going phone-free can’t be just about restriction - it shouldn’t be seen as taking something away. In reality, it’s about giving something very precious back: time.
We used the policy as a springboard to invest in breaktime activities, increase outdoor play and promote real face-to-face connections. Football and basketball have surged in popularity. Teachers report students are more active, more sociable and more grounded.
Reclaiming the school day
One year in, Ryde Academy is a different place. Our corridors are calmer. Our classrooms are more focused, and most importantly, our young people are telling us they feel more present, less stressed and more connected.
We’re proud to be a truly phone-free school. This isn’t about being anti-technology; it’s about reclaiming the school day as a space where students can learn, grow and just be kids, free from the ping of constant notifications.
Will Doyle is principal at Ryde Academy, part of Lift Schools
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