School to ban phone use for all S1 pupils

Peterhead Academy is set to ban firstyear students from carrying mobile phones. Headteacher Gerry McCluskey says the move – which will be implemented from the start of the school year in August – is aimed at “supporting” pupils as they adjust to secondary school.

He said: “Primary pupils do not have personal smart devices in school, so Peterhead Academy want to support our new S1 young people to settle into academy life and learn about how we use our devices appropriately at school and in the community, before they have to deal with the added social pressures online life in secondary school can bring.”

Scores of parents have championed the move calling for it to become policy in all Aberdeenshire schools.

However, others have cited concerns about child safety, particularly in cases of bullying or underlying health conditions.

Lynn Barclay commended staff for the decision. She said: “Great idea. All schools should do this. Well done for the brave decision.”

Laura Simpson echoed her applause adding: “This should be the case in every school.

“Well done Peterhead Academy, hopefully, others will follow.”

Erin Marshall acknowledges that mobile phones can act as a distraction during lessons and hopes the venture will prompt a ban in all northeast schools.

She said: “Good idea to try. Too many pupils are on their phones more than they are listening and learning.

“They get used for bullying a lot too. Give it a try and hopefully, it works. Other schools should do this I reckon.”

Ashleigh Norrie believes staff need to toughen up on the use of mobile phones in schools.

She said: “When I was at school, phones would be put in a basket until after lessons.

“It is something that should still be done. Way too soft on kids at school.”

Brenda Young said: “Phones should never have been allowed in schools in the first place. Well done Peterhead Academy.”

Despite the overwhelming support, some parents remain sceptical and fear the venture will compromise safety.

Emma McIntyre said mobile phones should remain accessible to children in times of need.

She said: “It’s a good idea so the kids won’t be distracted, but I can’t help but think of safety.

“Their phones should be in reach for emergencies. Some crazy things happen in schools nowadays.”

Gordonstoun School, in Moray, banned phones for all pupils during the school day in 2017 – a move that was well-received by both pupils and parents.

LACK OF FOCUS: Many readers feel mobile phones can be a distraction for pupils during schooldays.