School phone ban sees 'uplift' in traditional play

A school's ban on smartphones for Year 7 pupils has been met with praise from the deputy headteacher, who has described the change as "brilliant" and "uplifting".

The policy, announced at St Peter's Catholic School in Bournemouth in July and implemented in September, came after a school-wide survey revealed 97% of parents and carers believed smartphones and social media posed a risk to children's wellbeing.

Furthermore, 90% said they would feel more confident delaying or reducing their child's access to such devices if others did the same.

Since the ban took effect, deputy head James Wilder says the school has seen a "massive uplift" in pupils arriving early and engaging in traditional play.

"We've seen children bringing in board games, basketballs, UNO, daisy chains… a return to what childhood should be," he said.

"They don't need the worry of social media and who has the nicest phone."

He described the atmosphere as "an uplifting sight," adding the initiative has received "supportive backing from parents".

While the school's decision has been applauded locally, Mr Wilder believes the issue extends beyond individual institutions.

"A bigger decision needs to be made by the government – it shouldn't be down to individual schools, there are enough challenges," he said.

The Department for Education responded by saying it supports schools in "taking the necessary steps to prevent disruption", but stopped short of endorsing a nationwide ban.