Consultation on phones in schools launched

West Northamptonshire Council is asking the public to give their views on the benefits and challenges that mobile phones bring to schools

A local authority has launched a consultation about students having access to mobile phones in schools and colleges.

West Northamptonshire Council said the consultation invited the public to give their views on the "benefits and challenges" that mobile phones and smart devices may bring during the school day.

The campaign group, Smartphone Free Childhood, has called on parents not to give children smartphones before their 14th birthday.

The Reform UK-controlled council said the anonymous consultation would run until 4 January.

Councillor Kathryn Shaw, cabinet member for children's, families and education at the council, said the subject of smartphones in schools "generates strong and varied opinions".

She said: "This consultation provides an opportunity to do just this, for young people, families, teachers and the wider community to share their perspectives so that we can build a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges involved.

"By listening to the breadth of views across West Northamptonshire, we will be better placed to consider what guidance may be most helpful in supporting our schools and students moving forward."

The current Department for Education (DfE) guidance on mobile phones sets out four potential models for schools, including handing devices in on arrival, storing phones securely, keeping them out of sight and unused, or banning mobiles in schools entirely.