Mobile Phone Guidance
Updated Mobile Phone Guidance 2026
Updated DfE Guidance on Mobile Phones in Schools
On 19 January 2026, the government updated its guidance on the use of mobile phones in schools. Revising the previous guidance published in 2024, the new guidance states that “all schools should be mobile phone-free environments by default; anything other than this should be by exception only.”
Although still non-statutory, the expectations mark a notable shift in how schools are expected to manage the use of mobile devices. At St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School, we recognise the importance of creating a calm, focused and respectful learning environment where pupils can engage fully in school life without unnecessary distractions. The updated guidance reflects the wider national and global conversation around online safety, children’s wellbeing and the impact of excessive screen time and social media use on young people.
Updates to the mobile phone guidance
The updated guidance sets the expectation that all schools in England should operate as mobile phone-free environments throughout the entire school day, including lessons, movement between lessons, breaktimes and lunchtimes. The guidance also recommends restrictions on other smart technology with similar functionality to mobile phones, including smart watches.
At St Bernadette's, we are committed to supporting positive behaviour, strong relationships and purposeful learning throughout the school day. Our expectations regarding mobile phones and smart devices will continue to be communicated clearly to pupils, parents, carers and staff to ensure a consistent approach across the school community.
Staff are expected to model these expectations by avoiding the use of personal mobile phones in front of pupils during the school day, except where necessary for professional or safeguarding purposes. Parents and carers are also encouraged to support the school’s approach by discussing online safety, healthy screen habits and responsible social media use at home.
The Department for Education has confirmed that schools may apply appropriate sanctions, including confiscation and detentions, where pupils fail to follow the policy. As a result, schools are advised to review their behaviour policies to ensure they align with the updated expectations.
St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School recognises that reasonable adjustments may be required for pupils with medical needs, disabilities or exceptional circumstances. For example, some pupils may need access to a mobile device to support the management of medical conditions such as diabetes or other health-related needs.
The school may also apply additional arrangements for educational visits and residential trips provided these continue to support the overall aim of maintaining a phone-free learning environment.
Ofsted
Although the guidance remains non-statutory, the government has confirmed that Ofsted inspectors will consider a school’s mobile phone policy as part of the inspection process.
Inspectors are expected to consider:
- whether the school has a clear and appropriate mobile phone policy;
- whether the policy has been communicated effectively so that pupils, staff and families understand expectations; and
- whether the policy is applied consistently throughout the school day.
Ofsted has also stated that where schools choose not to follow the guidance, inspectors may explore the impact mobile phone use is having on behaviour, learning, safeguarding and pupil wellbeing. This could include considering whether phone use contributes to disruption in lessons, bullying, poor concentration, reduced attendance, or concerns around pupils’ mental health and sense of belonging.
At St Bernadette's, we remain committed to providing a safe, supportive and focused environment where all pupils can thrive academically and personally.
The wider picture
The updated mobile phone guidance forms part of a broader national and international focus on strengthening online safety and supporting young people’s wellbeing. The government has recently launched a consultation exploring tougher measures on social media use for young people, including the possibility of further restrictions for children under the age of 16.
Alongside the Online Safety Act, these developments reflect growing concerns about the impact of online platforms, social media and excessive screen time on children’s mental health, relationships and development.
At St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School, we will continue to work in partnership with families to promote safe, balanced and responsible use of technology, helping pupils to develop healthy habits both in and beyond school.