England Mandates Phone-Free School Days Under New Government Guidance

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says phones have no place in lessons, breaks, or lunch.

The UK government has taken a firm step toward creating phone-free school environments across England. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has instructed all schools to ensure pupils do not use mobile phones at any point during the school day, including lessons, break times, and lunch.

In a letter sent directly to schools, Phillipson stressed that phones should not be used even for seemingly harmless purposes such as calculators or classroom research. Her message was clear: mobile phones distract from learning and do not belong in school life.

The updated guidance strengthens earlier advice issued in 2024, which Phillipson said lacked clarity and consistency. This time, the expectations are explicit. Ofsted, the school inspection body, will now check how well schools are enforcing their phone policies. Teachers are also being advised to avoid using their own phones in front of students.

The move comes shortly after the government announced a three-month consultation on potentially banning social media for children under 16, highlighting growing concerns about online safety and screen time.

While many educators support tighter controls on phone use, some school leaders have raised concerns. Teaching unions argue that using Ofsted to monitor phone policies could feel heavy-handed, calling instead for practical support rather than added pressure.

Phone rules continue to vary across the UK. Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland allow schools more flexibility in setting their own policies, reflecting education’s devolved nature. Still, the message from England’s education leaders is unmistakable: classrooms should be places for focus, learning, and human connection, not screens.