England schools set for legal phone restriction
The UK government is considering new legislation that would require schools in England to restrict pupils’ use of mobile phones during the school day, according to media reports.
Education minister Jacqui Smith told the House of Lords that the government intends to introduce an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill to create a clear legal obligation for schools to limit phone use. The Department for Education (DfE) said the measure would formalise policies that many schools have already put in place voluntarily.
Earlier this year, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson wrote to school leaders encouraging them to adopt phone-free policies throughout the day. The proposed amendment would place that guidance on a statutory footing, meaning schools would be required to comply.
Officials emphasised that the approach differs from proposals put forward by the Conservative Party, which has argued for a stricter, nationwide legal ban on mobile phones in schools. Shadow education secretary Laura Trott welcomed the development, describing it as positive news for teachers, parents and pupils.
The move reflects a growing international trend, with several countries — including some within the European Union — taking steps to limit children’s screen time in educational settings.
Health experts have also raised concerns about early exposure to smartphones. Paediatrician Dr Waseem Ahmed Jamalvi warned that excessive phone use at a young age may affect children’s wellbeing, potentially contributing to sleep problems, eye strain, irritability, and challenges in learning and development.
