Phones In Schools: the Big Debate

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It has been decided by a Senedd committee that pupils should be able to use their smartphones in Welsh schools. A call for an outright ban was discussed with teachers, parents and pupils, and it was decided that, instead of a ban, clear guidance should be drawn up as to use of phones.

The committee that looked at the petition calling for a ban concluded that there is evidence of harm but that, overall, smartphones support young people’s welfare and safety.

Each Welsh school currently has its own policy, but general concern as to the possible harm that smartphones pose is leading the Welsh Government towards asking all schools to comply with guidelines.

A report from the Children’s Commissioner for Wales in 2024 revealed that 62 per cent of primary school children and 97 per cent of secondary have smartphones .

Not all pupils take their phones to school but 48 per cent admit to using them for education purposes and 30 per cent for other activities.

A Welsh Government debate will be arranged in the Senedd before any decisions are made regarding guidelines for the future.