Dear Parents

A Smartphone Free School

Over time school staff have observed changes in our children such as changing behaviour patterns, increased mental health issues, more and more incidents of unacceptable behaviour online and the children are frequently finding themselves in unsafe situations.

This week there was a further incident with the older children involving smartphones and we took the action to inform the Upper Phase parents that in September 2025 we will be a smartphone free school. Up until this point I had hoped that the government would legislate to increase the legal age for a smart phone, but this hasn’t happened yet so we have taken the decision and action now for the wellbeing and safety of all children in our school and will change policy for September 2025. From this time, NO smartphones for children will be allowed on site. In the meantime, we will continue to collect switched off phones and store them for the entirety of the school day.

The parental response so far has been overwhelmingly positive. Many parents have sent emails of support saying that it helps them to establish boundaries if all their children’s friends have the same ‘call only phones’ which they can use when they walk independently to school. Far less children came to school with phones yesterday, which was helpful and interesting.

The email that I sent to the Upper Phase parents, which has many useful links to research and data clearly stating the dangers of smartphones on our young children is attached separately listed as 'Important Message'. Please take some time to read it as we all find it difficult to comprehend the dangers until something happens to us directly. It also includes a link to an example of a 2G phone, which is for calls and messages only, which can cost as little as £20.

We wanted to share this now, in case some parents whose children are moving to Year 5 may be considering purchasing a phone. We also wanted to give parents a good amount of time to speak to children in lower year groups who may be asking for phones, so you have the information you need to make an informed choice.

To support us with this, can I remind all parents and family members that you need to remain off all smartphones when you are on the school site, including during the walk around the school site at drop-off and pick-up times. Please can you remember this also applies to devices for children or adults during Family Breakfasts. This has slipped recently, and we need to set a good example to the children. Thank you!

We hope the tide is turning and children can return to a smartphone free childhood.

Parking

Local residents are frustrated that parents park on both sides of Ellis Way. They also park illegally on the pavements so that pedestrians are being forced to walk in the road into oncoming traffic and park directly on corners of roads, all of which are dangerous and inconsiderate. Thank you to those who park further out and with consideration for others.

Just a reminder that only parents with permission or blue badges should access the turning cycle for the safety of the children at drop-off and pick-up times. This applies at all times, whether or not there is a member of Amey staff monitoring the gate. Thank you.  

It has been a lovely week back at school and we have enjoyed some warm sunshine at playtimes.

Have a great weekend

Mrs Alison Harvey