Bexley schools are set to implement a ban on mobile phones for pupils by September 2026, aligning with new government guidance. The decision, discussed at the Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, aims to reduce distractions and foster greater social interaction among students.
Councillor Abi Johnson initiated the discussion, seeking clarity on the practicalities of the ban and how safety concerns would be addressed, particularly given the role of mobile phones in emergencies. It was clarified that the ban will specifically target smartphones, rather than a complete prohibition of all mobile devices. Schools will collaborate with headteachers to establish consistent policies.
For students who require smartphones for essential reasons, such as accessing medical information or for safeguarding purposes, provisions will be made. Schools will be discussing new guidance mandating mobile-free schools by September 2026, and for students who need the smartphones because they have to access medical information will still be able to use them. So those that are able to make sure that those that are able to make sure that those that are able to make sure that those that need them for safeguarding concerns the other way to make sure they can be contacted can still be using them.
The distinction between smartphones and 'brick phones' (analogue phones) was highlighted as an important consideration in policy development, with the latter still permitted for contact.
Several councillors shared their perspectives. Councillor Sue Ford advocated for a strict, unambiguous rule, while Councillor Christine Catterall, a former teacher, recounted a successful blanket ban at a previous school that significantly improved student social interaction. This suggests that beyond reducing distractions, the ban can lead to increased social engagement and participation in other activities.
Concerns were also raised regarding safety during the journey to and from school. Councillor Jeremy Fosten suggested an out of sight, out of mind
approach could be beneficial, a sentiment echoed by Councillor Howard Jackson, who also emphasised the importance of distinguishing between smartphones and analogue phones. He noted that the government's guidance presents a rare opportunity of synergy
with the existing social media ban for under-16s.
The implementation and management of these mobile phone policies will ultimately rest with individual schools. Mechanisms for enforcement are being explored, with some schools considering pouches for locking away devices and others a policy of confiscation if phones are seen. The meeting information suggests that if phones are seen, we take them away.
One former teacher shared their experience where phones were confiscated if they appeared, and the policy was in your bag, you don't touch it until you leave the school grounds.
However, the consistency of consequences across all schools is not explicitly detailed, as it is stated that it's down to the individual schools to set them in line with government priority.
The local authority plans to work with schools to make sure that there is a consistent approach
and is willing to support it as a local authority
if schools opt for a borough wide policy around it.
The headteacher forum is being utilised to discuss these matters, and the local authority will look at the details
if schools propose a policy. The government's forthcoming legislation is seen as a positive development, providing a good starting position.
The discussion also encompassed the broader use of technology in schools, with some councillors favouring a blend of traditional learning methods alongside technological integration. The new guidance, mandating mobile-free schools by September 2026, is part of wider Education White Paper reforms aimed at strengthening the school-led system in Bexley.
Further details on the committee's discussions can be found in the Agenda frontsheet and the Public reports pack.
