The Department of Education has issued new guidance to support school leaders in restricting the personal use of mobile phones throughout the school day, including at break and lunch times.

The Guidance recommends that pupils do not use their mobile phones during the school day and that phones should not in normal circumstances be brought into primary schools. It sets out a range of potential approaches to restricting the use of mobile phones in schools and key practical issues that should be considered and are likely to form part of a school’s policy approach on mobile phone use.

Many schools in Northern Ireland already have mobile phone policies in place that restrict their use during the school day. This guidance will ensure there is a more consistent approach across all schools. Schools have been asked to review their policies on mobile phone use in light of the new guidance during the autumn term.