Sussex school bans mobile phones, smartwatches to eliminate ’distractions’

A secondary school in Sussex has declared it will be "mobile phone free," stating that phones and smartwatches are a distraction to students' learning. Ark Alexandra Academy, located in Hastings, is asking parents and carers to ensure students leave their phones and smartwatches at home.

This new policy will take effect from September 2024, with bag searches conducted in accordance with the Department for Education (DfE) guidelines. The school had considered allowing students to store their devices on-site but deemed it impractical to manage nearly 2,000 phones daily.

In a YouTube video, Vice Principal Sarah Butters explained: "In response to updated DfE guidance and because it's the right thing to do, Ark Alexandra will be mobile-free from September 2024. Students must leave their phones at home, as they will not be permitted in school. The same rule applies to smartwatches and other internet-enabled devices."

Butters further stated that the school would not take responsibility for managing or storing these devices and that students concealing phones would breach school policy, resulting in bag searches in line with DfE guidance.

The academy's new policy is aimed at creating a safer environment, citing well-documented concerns about the negative impact of mobile phones on children. Executive Principal Rhys Spiers added: "Mobile phones distract from learning and are often linked to mental health issues in children. We want to foster a school environment centred on healthy relationships, respect, and courtesy."

The school has been in communication with parents and students regarding these changes, which have already led to a noticeable improvement in standards. Support is also being provided to families who may face difficulties adapting to the new policy.