Subject: Consultation on the Use of Mobile Phones in School
Dear Parents/Guardians,
We hope this letter finds you well. As part of our commitment to ensuring the best possible learning environment for our students, we are seeking your views on the use of mobile phones in school. Recently, concerns have been raised about the impact of mobile phone use on young people’s academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being.
Research has shown that excessive mobile phone use among children aged 11-16 is linked to a decline in concentration, increased anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. A 2023 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that screen time exceeding two hours per day is associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety in teenagers. Additionally, a report from the UK Department for Education highlighted that schools enforcing phone bans have seen an average improvement of 6% in student test scores.
Beyond academic concerns, mobile phones are contributing to an increase in cyberbullying, online abuse, and social isolation. According to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), over 1 in 3 young people have experienced cyberbullying, with many reporting a significant impact on their mental health. The Anti-Bullying Alliance also reports that 56% of young people have witnessed online bullying, which can lead to low self-esteem and depression. Furthermore, the Child Mind Institute warns that excessive social media use fosters unrealistic comparisons and negative self-perception, particularly among teenagers.
In addition, mobile phones provide easy access to inappropriate content and expose young users to potential online predators. Studies from Internet Matters suggest that over 60% of children aged 11-16 have encountered harmful or distressing online content, contributing to increased anxiety and stress levels.
Given these concerns, we are considering implementing a policy that restricts the use of mobile phones during school hours. While we recognise that mobile phones can be valuable tools for communication and learning, we believe that limiting their use within the school environment will create a more focused and supportive space for all students.
We value your input on this important matter and invite you to share your views through a consultation process. A survey will be sent out next week, and we encourage all parents to participate.
Thank you for your support in ensuring the well-being and academic success of our students. If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at 02837522278.
We would appreciate you taking the time to complete the consultation found at the link below. Please complete the consultation by 3.15pm on Wednesday 11th June 2025.
https://forms.office.com/e/KDVLU3Niiu
Kind regards
K Mulholland
Principal