Mobile phone use

We have thought long and hard about our mobile phone use policy within KHS. One of the impacts from Covid-19 has been the reliance on Technology for online learning and to ensure pupils continue to progress. How lucky we are that every pupil at KHS has access to a Google Chromebook as what has become very evident in other parts of the UK is that not all young people are as fortunate. Whilst we appreciate that mobile phones have the technology built in to access pupil diaries & timetables, google classroom work & communication with school and subjects teachers- the chromebook is the place for this. Our experience over the years had led us to the following conclusions, which is not an exhaustive list (but please contact us if you would like more information:) : -

  • Mobile Phone use within school time leads to an increase in child protection concerns

  • Online bullying increases

  • Photographs and videos are made of pupils without their consent

  • Less learning & progress is made due to the simple distraction of notifications and updates

  • Inappropriate use of a mobile phone can put pupils at increased risk of sexual exploitation

Therefore the following rules apply at KHS: -

  • KHS is a no phone zone. However, pupils are allowed to bring their phones to school but they should be left untouched during school hours

  • If you have your mobile phone out, expect to be asked to hand it over by all your teachers

  • It will be placed in the school office where parents & carers will be contacted to collect it at their convenience

Other notable benefits of putting your phone away during school time are: -

  • Increase in real face to face social interaction with peers

  • Improved confidence and self-esteem

  • Improved social skills

  • A return to some sport, fun and games at break and lunch time, which in return has a positive impact on wellbeing - both physical and mental.

  • More time outdoors

There may well be a time when a teacher specifically requests a class or pupil(s) to access their phones for the benefit of their teaching & learning, which is totally acceptable. Common sense will prevail. Thank you.