Spotlight on... Swanmore Mobile Phone Policy
Following the successful introduction of our smartphone ban for Year 7 in September 2025, Swanmore College extended the policy to all year groups (Years 7–11) from September 2026. Swanmore College is now a smartphone-free site.
This is in line with Department for Education guidance on mobile phone use in schools and builds on our commitment to supporting pupils' learning, wellbeing and positive relationships.
This Spotlight explains what our smartphone-free policy means for pupils and how parents and carers can support these expectations.
Some facts for you
- Smartphones must not be brought onto the College site by any pupil, regardless of year group.
- Basic mobile phones without smart features (brick phones) are permitted but must remain switched off and in pupils' bags throughout the school day.
- Smartwatches with messaging, calling or internet capabilities must not be brought onto site. Simple watches that only tell the time are permitted.
- Earphones, earbuds and AirPods must not be used during the school day.
- If a pupil brings a prohibited device into the College, it will be confiscated in line with our behaviour policy. Parents/carers will be contacted and arrangements made for collection.
- Reasonable adjustments will be made for pupils with specific medical needs, such as diabetes monitoring.
Why are we smartphone-free?
Our experience with Year 7 has been very positive. We have seen pupils settle more quickly, engage more readily with learning and socialise more confidently without the constant presence of smartphones.
Extending the policy across the College allows us to build on this experience and establish consistent expectations for all pupils.
Removing smartphones from the school day helps pupils to:
- Concentrate fully in lessons and engage more actively with learning
- Develop positive relationships with their peers and staff
- Build independence, resilience and confidence
- Reduce distractions, online conflict and the pressures associated with social media
Our aim is not simply to restrict access to smartphones, but to create an environment where every pupil feels safe, valued and able to thrive.
Parent Voice
We are pleased that 75% of parents and carers who responded to our Parent View survey supported our smartphone policy.
Your feedback, alongside our positive experience with Year 7, helped inform our decision to extend the policy across the College. We are grateful for your continued support in helping us establish clear and consistent expectations for all pupils.
The biggest challenge
We recognise that a smartphone-free school day is a significant change for some pupils and families. For pupils who are used to having their phones with them throughout the day, adjusting to these expectations may take time.
Our challenge is helping pupils understand why the policy matters and recognise the benefits of spending the school day without smartphones. Consistent messages at home and at the College will play an important part in supporting this change.
Frequently asked questions
How can I contact my child during the school day?
If you need to pass an urgent message to your child, please contact the College. We will ensure the information is passed on promptly. If a pupil needs to contact home during the day, this can also be arranged through the College.
What about after-school clubs and activities?
Pupils attending clubs or sports fixtures can use College phones to contact home if necessary. Wherever possible, please make arrangements for collection times in advance.
Can my child bring a basic mobile phone?
Basic mobile phones without smart features (brick phones) are permitted. These must remain switched off and in pupils' bags throughout the school day.
Are smartwatches allowed?
Smartwatches with messaging, calling or internet capabilities must not be brought onto the College site. Simple watches that only tell the time are permitted.
What if my child needs a smartphone for medical reasons?
Reasonable adjustments will be made for pupils with specific medical needs, such as diabetes monitoring. Please contact the College to discuss your child's individual requirements.
How can my child access their school bus pass?
If your child previously used a digital bus pass, please contact the College for information about alternative arrangements.
How can you help?
We recognise that this policy is a significant change for some families, and your continued support is important in helping pupils understand and follow the expectations.
Parents and carers can help by:
- Reinforcing the smartphone-free expectations at home
- Talking with your child about the reasons behind the policy
- Encouraging healthy routines around smartphones and social media
- Making clear arrangements for after-school activities and collection times
By working together, we can support a positive school experience in which every pupil feels safe, valued and able to thrive.
If you would like more information, have a query about this 'Spotlight', or would like to request a focus for a future 'Spotlight', please email: spotlight@swanmore-sec.hants.sch.uk