Dallam’s Year 7 Digital Detox
Update at 31 March: Our Digital Detox has now finished but you can read more about what we learned, here.
Taking a step back
Screens are everywhere. They help us stay connected, learn, and unwind — but how often do we take a step back and think about how they shape our daily lives? This term, we’re inviting our Year 7 students, staff, and parents to take part in a 21-day digital detox from Thursday 27 February to Wednesday 19 March.
This isn’t about giving up technology altogether. It’s a chance to press pause, reflect on our relationship with screens, and make small changes that could have a big impact, including better sleep, more family time, and rediscovering hobbies that don’t need Wi-Fi.
How the detox will work
We know that completely switching off isn’t realistic for everyone, so this detox is designed to be flexible. The idea is to reduce smartphone use in a way that works for you. That might mean:
- Cutting back on social media, gaming, or endless scrolling
- Setting screen-free zones at home, like at the dinner table or in bedrooms
- Replacing screen time with other activities — reading, creativity, sports, or just enjoying some quiet time
- Keeping a digital detox diary to notice changes, what feels different, and what’s worth keeping beyond the 21 days
Students who take part will receive a certificate of achievement and be recognised in the Headteacher’s Book of Excellence. But most importantly, we hope they’ll take away something even more valuable — a fresh perspective on how they use their time.
Get involved
Although this is a Year 7 challenge, we would love to see other students, parents, staff, and members of our wider school community join in.
- Join us for our online safety talk with Cumbria Constabulary on Thursday 20 March from 6 to 7 pm in the Main Hall. It’s a great chance to learn more about online habits, safety, and the impact of smartphones.
- Watch the documentary Inside Britain’s School That Banned Smartphones, which explores how reducing screen time can change a school community.
- Download the Digital Detox Diary to track your progress, jot down reflections, and see what life feels like with a little less screen time.
