The Victorian Education Minister has mandated a new mobile phone policy which will apply to all Victorian government school students. The policy means that phones and smart watches should not be brought to school but if they are, the mobile devices must be switched off and stored securely in the student’s locker during the school day and are not to be used during the school day.

Rational of this policy is to provide:

• a safe environment to learn without inappropriate mobile phone use (including cyberbullying) or distractions

• greater opportunities for social interaction and physical activity during recess and lunchtimes.

The school and department acknowledge that technology is important, but the risks and benefits from its use need to be managed.

• If a student chooses to bring a mobile phone/watch to school, it must be locked in the students locker on arrival to school and left there for the rest of the school day

• Mobile phones/devices are not to be used during recess or lunchtime

• Any mobile phones/devices that are sighted out of lockers by staff, will be confiscated and taken to the front office for collection at the end of the school day

• If students repeatedly do not adhere to the policy it will lead to further school action and a parent meeting

In emergencies, parents can contact their children through the school office.

• A small number of exceptions will be made. These exceptions will only be available if a mobile phone is essential for a student in:

• managing a health condition(registered with the Wellbeing Leader & teachers notified)

• classroom learning

• Teachers can grant a classroom-based learning exception which will be approved by the Executive Leadership Team. Other exceptions are managed by the School Principal.

Students will use these devices during class for educational purpose as instructed by their classroom teacher. They will not be allowed to use their laptops during recess and lunchtime unless they are involved in a program which is supervised by a teacher or in the library or senior study centre.

Private property brought to school by students is not insured by the school or covered by school insurance, and that it is not the responsibility of the Department if that property is lost, stolen or damaged.