Cokethorpe School has reported improved pupil wellbeing and engagement following the introduction of stricter smartphone restrictions, as national discussions continue around a potential legal ban on mobile phones in schools.
The Oxfordshire-based school strengthened its mobile phone policy in February 2024, building on a long-standing rule that had already limited phone use for more than 13 years.
The move came amid growing concerns about the impact of smartphones and social media on young people’s wellbeing, attention and online safety.
With pupils already using surface devices for educational purposes, the school determined that mobile phones were unnecessary during the school day. Since the updated policy was introduced, staff say they have observed noticeable improvements in the school environment, particularly in social interaction and classroom engagement.
Jonathan Stevens, Deputy Head at Cokethorpe School, said: “Our primary focus has always been pupil wellbeing and online safety.
“In recent years it became increasingly apparent that smartphones and social media were having a negative impact on young people’s attention, wellbeing and screen habits.
“Since strengthening our policy, the most noticeable improvement has been the quality of social engagement among pupils. Giving young people the opportunity to step away from their devices allows them to connect more fully with each other and engage with all aspects of school life.”
The policy was broadly welcomed by parents when introduced, although pupils were initially more hesitant. The school says attitudes have since shifted, with increased awareness of the challenges linked to smartphone use contributing to wider acceptance.
Mr Stevens added: “The school has been working in partnership with parents, running a series of workshops for parents discussing the negative impact and addictive nature of social media and wider smartphone use, particularly for children and adolescents.
“By sharing our knowledge and experience, we have helped parents, teachers and pupils become more aligned on the issue, building a better understanding of the pressures that smartphones and social media place on young people.
“Many parents have told us they are grateful for the clear boundaries the school has put in place, and pupils have now become accustomed to the policy as part of everyday school life.”
As part of its approach, the school has introduced guidance for new Year 7 pupils to use non-smartphones, which will become a requirement from September. It has also reassured parents that clear communication channels remain in place during the school day.
With the government now considering tighter national restrictions, Cokethorpe School believes its experience demonstrates the benefits of consistent boundaries.
Mr Stevens said: “Young people need space to breathe. Limiting smartphone use during the school day gives pupils greater opportunity to engage, participate and thrive without the constant temptation of distraction.”
Located near Witney, Cokethorpe School is an independent co-educational day school for pupils aged four to 18, set within a 150-acre parkland campus.
