The government of England has issued new guidelines, banning the use of mobile phones in schools, aiming to enhance the learning environment and minimize distractions. Under these directives, headteachers are empowered to oversee the implementation of this policy throughout the school day, including break times. The initiative seeks to establish a uniform approach across all educational institutions in the country, offering flexibility to schools in terms of enforcement. Options include banning phones outright from school premises, collecting devices upon students' arrival, or securely storing them during school hours.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan underscored the disruptive nature of mobile phones in classrooms, emphasizing the necessity for teachers to have tools enabling them to maintain discipline and focus on teaching. The move comes in response to concerns raised by parents and educators regarding the adverse effects of excessive mobile phone use among students.

Studies conducted by the UK media watchdog, Office of Communications (OFCOM), and the Department for Education (DfE) have highlighted the prevalence of mobile phone ownership among children, with approximately 97% of twelve-year-olds possessing a device. The proliferation of mobile phones has raised concerns about issues such as cyberbullying, distraction, and a decline in academic performance.

Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan stressed the importance of safeguarding children's well-being and educational experience in the digital era. While acknowledging the opportunities afforded by technology, Donelan emphasized the need to mitigate its negative impacts. The government's decision to restrict mobile phone use in schools aligns with efforts to create a safer online environment for young people, supported by legislative measures.

Parental concerns about excessive screen time among children have also been a driving factor behind the government's initiative. A survey conducted by the charity ParentKind revealed that 44% of parents are worried about their children spending too much time on electronic devices, a figure that rises to 50% among parents of secondary school students.

By implementing strategies to limit mobile phone use, such as providing lockers with charging points, schools have reported positive outcomes in terms of improved student behavior and overall school culture. England's move to ban mobile phones in schools brings it in line with other European countries, including France, Italy, and Portugal, which have already implemented similar restrictions.