What's happened
A national survey reveals that nearly all schools in England have implemented bans on mobile phone use during school hours. The National Education Union's leader advocates for a statutory ban, citing concerns over online harm and its impact on students' wellbeing. The debate on mobile phone regulations intensifies as the NEU prepares for its annual conference.
What's behind the headline?
Key Points:
- Widespread Bans: The survey indicates that 99.8% of primary schools and 90% of secondary schools have some form of mobile phone ban, reflecting a significant shift in school policies.
- NEU's Stance: Daniel Kebede, the NEU's general secretary, argues for a statutory ban, emphasizing the need for a national conversation about the dangers of mobile phone access, particularly regarding exposure to harmful content.
- Government Response: Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson supports headteachers' autonomy in implementing bans but has not committed to a statutory requirement, indicating a divide in governmental approaches.
- Social Media Regulation: The NEU is also pushing for greater accountability from social media companies, likening their influence on youth to that of tobacco companies, suggesting a need for stricter regulations.
- Impact on Mental Health: The discussion is framed within broader concerns about mental health and the influence of online content on young people's perceptions and wellbeing.
What the papers say
According to Richard Adams in The Guardian, the NEU's Kebede highlights the damaging effects of mobile phone access, stating, 'the average 12-year-old has access to the most hardcore pornography on their mobile phone.' This sentiment is echoed by Eleanor Busby from The Independent, who notes that Kebede's call for a statutory ban comes despite existing guidance that has proven ineffective. The debate is further fueled by Baroness Harman's comments advocating for a top-down mandate from the government to standardize mobile phone policies across schools. The contrasting views reflect a growing urgency to address the implications of mobile phone use on youth mental health and safety.
How we got here
The issue of mobile phone use in schools has gained traction following a survey by the Children’s Commissioner, which highlighted the prevalence of smartphone access among students. Previous non-statutory guidance aimed to limit phone use, but many schools have opted for stricter measures.
Go deeper
- What are the specific regulations being proposed?
- How do parents feel about the mobile phone bans?
- What impact could this have on students' learning?
Common question
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Why are schools in England banning mobile phones?
The recent trend of banning mobile phones in schools across England has sparked significant debate. With nearly all schools implementing these bans, concerns about online harm and student wellbeing are at the forefront. This page explores the reasons behind these bans, the reactions from parents and students, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of such policies.
More on these topics
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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The National Education Union is a trade union in the United Kingdom for school teachers, further education lecturers, education support staff and teaching assistants.
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Daniel Kebede is a British trade union leader.
Kebede studied law at the University of Wales before becoming a schoolteacher. He taught in early years, primary and secondary schools, and became active in the National Union of Teachers.
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Bridget Maeve Phillipson is a British Labour Party politician who was elected at the 2010 general election as the Member of Parliament for Houghton and Sunderland South.