The debate over whether smartphones should be banned in schools in England is heating up, with calls growing to enshrine restrictions into law. Labour MP Josh MacAlister is leading the charge with a private member’s bill that aims to make schools mobile-free zones and raise the age at which online companies can receive data consent from children.
While some argue that smartphones offer valuable opportunities for child development, including socializing, others are concerned about the negative impact of excessive screen time. Schools like Ormiston Chadwick Academy in Cheshire have already implemented phone-free policies, leading to a significant reduction in safeguarding referrals related to social media.
Students at the academy, like Emilia and Dewmi, initially had reservations about the ban but have since embraced the change, citing reduced anxiety and improved focus on their studies. Meanwhile, parents like Rebekah Wersh-Bale are choosing to delay giving their children smartphones, citing concerns about addiction and social isolation.
The Safer Phones Bill has garnered support from a wide range of stakeholders, including former Conservative Education Secretary Kit Malthouse MP, children’s commissioners, and parent groups. The bill aims to regulate the design, supply, marketing, and use of mobile phones by under-16s, highlighting the growing consensus that action is needed to protect children from the potential harms of smartphone use.
As the debate continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the bill will gain enough traction in Parliament to become law. But one thing is clear: the issue of smartphone use in schools is not going away, and the voices calling for action are only getting louder.
