Smartphone‑free school environment from May half term

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing to remind you of an important change taking place at Acland Burghley School from Monday 1 June (after the May half term) regarding the use of mobile phones and smart devices in school.

Following consultation with students, staff and families, and in line with new Government guidance issued on 19 February 2026, schools are now required to operate as mobile phone‑free environments throughout the school day. This applies nationally and is part of a wider effort to improve young people’s wellbeing and safety.

Why are we making this change?

There is growing and consistent evidence that regular smartphone use during the school day is linked to:

• Reduced concentration and learning disruption
• Sleep and wellbeing concerns
• Increased risk of online bullying and exposure to harmful content
• Social isolation and reduced face‑to‑face interaction
• Increased risk of theft or mugging on journeys to and from school

Recent BBC reporting has highlighted that an increasing number of schools are moving to phone-free policies, with early evidence showing improved focus, calmer social spaces, and stronger relationships between students. The Department for Education has publicly supported these approaches as part of improving behaviour, attendance, and safeguarding in schools.

At Acland Burghley, our priority is to create an environment where students feel safe, focused, confident, and ready to learn.

What will the rules be? (Y7–11)

From Monday 1 June

• Smartphones and smart devices (watches/glasses/ear phones) will not be permitted on site.
  • This includes smart watches, wireless earphones, and any device capable of internet access or recording.
  • This applies from arrival to departure, including keeping phones in bags or pockets.

What is allowed

• Students may bring a basic “brick phone”.
  • The phone must have no internet access.
  • For communication with parents/carers before and after school only.
  • Must remain switched off and in bags during the school day.

If the rules are breached

To ensure consistency and fairness, the following will apply:

• First breach: device confiscated for 5 school days and collected by parents/carers that are named contacts.
• Repeated breaches: device confiscated for 10 school days and collected by parents/carers that are named contacts.
• Refusal to hand over a device: treated as serious defiance within our existing behaviour framework and may result in further sanctions, up to and including suspension.
• If a basic “brick phone” is seen: it will also be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the day.

These expectations have been clearly communicated to students through assemblies and tutor time follow‑up.

How parents and carers can support

• Supporting use of basic non‑internet phones or alternative travel arrangements.
• Considering delaying smartphone ownership where possible.
• Reinforcing school expectations at home to help build healthy digital habits.
• Talking to your child about responsible and balanced technology use.

We were encouraged that the majority of families supported a whole school smartphone ban during consultation, and we appreciate your continued support as this change is introduced.

Final message

This is a whole school, whole community change designed to improve students’ wellbeing, safety and learning experience. We recognise that change can take time, and we will continue to provide clear guidance and support to students and families.

If you have questions or would like to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Kind regards,

Aaron Shufflebotham
Deputy Headteacher
ashufflebotham@aclandburghley.camden.sch.uk