England schools to enforce complete mobile phone ban under stricter rules
School pupils across England will face a total ban on mobile phones during the school day under newly strengthened government statutory guidance.
Pupils across England will be barred from keeping mobile phones in their bags or pockets during the school day under tightened government guidance aimed at curbing digital distractions.
Education Secretary Lucy Powell said the updated rules, scheduled to take effect from September 2027, will replace existing policies where devices are allowed in bags if unused. Emphasising that school is intended for learning and friendship rather than screen time, ministers stressed that uncontrolled phone access harms academic engagement and social interaction.
Schools have begun implementing secure lockers and sealed pouches to enforce the rules, though headteachers' unions warned that comprehensive compliance requires dedicated government funding. Educational leaders noted that completely restricting mobile devices has already improved classroom concentration and playground communication among students.
Source: BBC News Photo: Michal Jarmoluk / StockSnap (CC0)
