Use of Devices

Policy and Procedure

RATIONALE

We have created a devices policy which aims to ensure our young people have the skills they need for life, work and learning. Our policy:

supports the pupils in developing self-regulation skills (we want them to be able to switch off from devices and focus on learning without engaging in conflict)
educates them on the impact of inappropriate phone use on themselves and others
ensures teaching and learning is at the forefront of their time in school without distraction

CORE EXPECTATIONS

Classrooms and corridors are free from devices
Device is immediately returned to bag without hesitation when asked by a member of staff
Device is immediately placed in “phone box” if device use occurs again
PHONE must not be taken to the toilet. If going the toilet during class, PHONE must be exchanged for the corridor pass.
Pupils must not plug in chargers under any circumstances
School is to be free from filming or photography without explicit consent. Staff must never be filmed or photographed.
If you are concerned about device misuse or feel unsafe, report concern to a member of staff.
When using a device in lessons you must ONLY use it for the task as set out by the teacher and then return it to your bag.
'Device' refers to phones, tablets, ear/headphones, airpods, etc.

EXCEPTIONS

If a teacher asks you to use a device you may do so during the task in line with “device usage expectations”

You may use your phone in social spaces before the first bell in the morning, during break and lunch and you must abide by the “device usage expectations”

NOTES FOR STAFF

In the event of failure to adhere to core expectations, the normal positive relationships policy applies. If concerned about inappropriate device use by a pupil, submit a wellbeing concern.

IMPLEMENTATION

During the introduction of the policy a number of measures will be rolled out alongside the new policy. A lesson will be created for use in PSE lessons focusing on healthy device use and raising awareness of the dangers (social and health).

PUPIL ASSEMBLY AND POSTERS

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ALL STUDENTS

Any device brought into school is done so at the risk of the owner.
All students must adhere to all of the core expectations of the policy as set out above.

ALL STAFF

When following flowchart, be incredibly clear with the warnings issued.
Devices must never be used in classes for 'down time' or to make up for a lack of appropriate work or cover.
Treat as any other classroom management issue. Follow Positive Relationships Policy and core expectations of device policy.
Staff must not allow pupils out of class with devices. Devices should be exchanged for corridor passes.
Phone Box to be utilised as necessary to host phones for one period at a time, unless a severe breach of pupil safety has occurred. Phone to be returned directly to pupil at the end of the period unless alternative arrangement in place.
Focus on positives, gentle reminder issued to pupils to put devices away. Avoid conflict situations, but if they arise treat as any other issue and follow Positive Relationships Policy.
If staff are made aware of inappropriate filming or photography and are unable to resolve immediately, treat as a wellbeing concern.
Record pupils who reach stage three of the flowchart below in the Google Sheet as close to the occurrence as possible. Names must be entered by the end of the school day on Fridays.
For concerning device use refer as “wellbeing concern”.

FACULTY HEAD

Support staff in implementing above.
Check on phone usage Google Sheet and send Groupcall email on Friday afternoons.
Follow Positive Relationships Policy role for Faculty Head as required.

PUPIL SUPPORT

Follow up wellbeing concerns as with any other.

HEAD OF HOUSE

Support staff as per Positive Relationships Policy.
Under extreme breach of policy be prepared to host phones.

MICRO-SCRIPTS

Privately: “Let’s make sure that devices away in your bag so it doesn’t distract you from learning lots today; you did really well last lesson”

Collectively: “Just a quick reminder to everyone that devices must be in bags.”

If threshold for device use is reached: “I can see that you’re struggling to resist the temptation of your phone today. As we agreed last time, you now need to place that phone into our phone box to help you focus on your learning. The lesson ends in 20 minutes and you can have it back then”

In case of refusal to place device in box: "I can see that you are not willing to give me your phone at this time. This will be followed up after class. For now, we will continue with learning."

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