Mobile phones

At Dallam School, we are committed to creating the best possible environment for learning, social development, and wellbeing. As part of this commitment, we have a clear no mobile phone policy in school.

Why we’ve taken a firm stance

The world our children are growing up in is shaped by constant digital stimulation, much of which is delivered via mobile phones. While technology has many benefits, research and experience show that mobile phones, especially smartphones, have a damaging effect on attention, relationships, and wellbeing — particularly in young people.

As educator Doug Lemov (2022) notes:

“At a time when students have been profoundly isolated and cut off from the groups in their lives, it’s critical that we engineer schools carefully to maximise these characteristics of daily interaction… To ensure that experiences are fully engaging, students need to be off phones and in a setting that is psychologically beneficial.”

The impact of mobile phones on children

• They fracture attention – learning demands deep, focused thinking.
• Social media ‘likes’ deliver dopamine – unpredictability fuels addiction.
• They disrupt slow thinking – constant switching undermines analytical thought.
• They damage relationships – tech firms intentionally reduce the influence of key social networks like family and friendship.
• They reduce social engagement – fewer children take part in extra-curricular activities that support mental and physical health.
• They impact everyone – phones cause us to be “forever elsewhere,” distracted from the present.

At school, students need to be present, focused, and connected – with their learning, with each other, and with the adults around them.

Our expectations

To support every student’s education and wellbeing, we ask that parents, carers, students and staff all support our clear, consistent approach:

• Phones must be turned off and stored in students’ bags or lockers from the moment they enter the school site until they leave.
• Phones must not be kept on a student’s person during the school day.

If a phone is seen or heard

Our escalation process is simple and consistent:

1. Phone seen or heard – student hands phone to the teacher; collects from the pastoral hub at the end of the day.
2. Refusal to hand phone to teacher – phone handed to a senior leader; collected at the end of the day by a parent/carer.
3. Further refusal or repeat breaches – the student may be suspended.

Need to contact your child?

If you need to get in touch with your child during the school day, please contact our team directly via Synergy or call 015395 65165 and speak to your child’s year team. We will ensure your message is passed on.

A collective effort

This policy isn’t about punishment or sanctions– it’s about prioritising your child’s focus, wellbeing and development. With your support, we can create a school environment where every student can thrive.