Calls are intensifying to enact a legal ban on smartphones in schools across England, with education experts and unions supporting an MP’s initiative to push a new law through Parliament. Josh MacAlister, a Labour MP and former teacher, argues that excessive smartphone use is harming children, describing their tendency to "doomscroll" for hours each day.
While many schools already enforce phone bans or restrictions following recent government guidance, MacAlister aims to codify these regulations into law. He is also advocating for "seatbelt legislation" regarding children's social media usage.
If parliamentary time permits, MPs may debate these proposals in the coming year. Although private members' bills typically struggle to pass without government support, they provide a platform for backbenchers to raise important issues.
The proposed Safer Phones Bill seeks to establish several key measures, including:
- A legal requirement for all schools to be designated mobile-free zones.
- Raising the age for online data consent from 13 to 16 without parental permission.
- Strengthening Ofcom's powers to enforce a code of conduct that protects children from "addictive by design" apps and services.
- Additional regulations on the design, supply, marketing, and use of mobile phones by those under 16, if necessary.
MacAlister, who previously led an independent review into children’s social care, stated, "Countries around the world are now taking bold action, and our children risk being left behind. It’s time to have the national debate here in the UK."
The bill has garnered support from former Conservative Education Secretary Kit Malthouse, current and former children's commissioners, and a coalition of parents' campaign groups, school leaders, children’s charities, and teaching unions.
Pepe Di’lasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, emphasized the need for regulation, stating that relying solely on parents and schools to teach children about smartphone dangers is no longer sufficient.
Ormiston Chadwick Academy in Cheshire implemented a phone-free policy at the start of the term. Principal Jennifer Lowry-Johnson explained that while the school previously asked students to keep phones out of sight, distractions persisted. Under the new policy, students must place their phones in a locked box for the day.
"We have seen a significant increase in students participating in lunchtime activities, like football, and a decrease in the number of students leaving class to check notifications," Lowry-Johnson noted, reporting a reduction of over 50% in safeguarding referrals related to inappropriate social media content.
Students have expressed positive responses to the policy. Emilia, a Year 11 student, initially skeptical about the phone ban, now appreciates the reduced anxiety associated with social media drama. Her friend Dewmi added that her parents have noticed she has been focusing on her studies more since the implementation.
While some parents express concerns about their children being socially isolated without smartphones, they acknowledge the addictive nature of apps and support the school ban. Rebekah Wershbale, a mother from Macclesfield, has chosen to delay giving her daughter a smartphone, fearing social isolation but recognizing the need for limits.
Social media companies, including Snapchat and Meta, have stated they provide additional protections for users under 18. Recently, Instagram launched Teen Accounts for 13-15-year-olds, offering default private settings and tools to manage screen time.
As the discussion around smartphone use in schools continues, both educators and parents are weighing the implications for children's well-being and development.
