Moray Council introduces new rules to limit mobile phone distractions in classrooms.
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In a significant move aimed at enhancing the learning environment, Moray Council has announced a comprehensive ban on mobile phone usage in schools, set to take effect at the beginning of the new term in August. This decision comes in response to growing concerns about the disruptive impact of mobile devices on students’ education.
New guidelines for mobile phone usage
The newly established guidelines, which apply to both primary and secondary schools, mandate an outright ban on mobile phones in all primary schools. For secondary schools, students are required to keep their phones “switched off and out of sight” during school hours.
This initiative follows a consultation that garnered over 3,000 responses, with a notable 73% of participants supporting the ban.
Concerns and challenges ahead
While the council’s decision has been largely welcomed, concerns have been raised regarding the practical implementation of these new rules. Individual head teachers are tasked with developing specific policies for their schools based on the council’s guidance, which must be completed by August. Sheila Brumby, a supply teacher in Moray, expressed her support for the guidelines, citing frequent disruptions caused by students using their phones during class. She noted instances where students received messages from parents during lessons, which she deemed inappropriate.
Balancing safety and education
Despite the positive reception, some councillors have voiced concerns about the potential risks associated with the ban, particularly for younger students who may walk to school alone without a mobile phone. Elgin North councillor Amber Dunbar highlighted that for some pupils, having a phone is crucial for their safety during commutes. However, other council members, like Sandy Keith, argued that the restrictions would ultimately allow teachers to focus more on teaching rather than managing phone-related distractions.
Vivienne Cross, Moray Council’s head of education, emphasized the shared responsibility between parents and schools in ensuring student safety. She reiterated that the guidelines also encompass smartwatches with cellular capabilities, aiming to prevent students from circumventing the rules. The overarching goal of these new regulations is to create a more conducive learning environment, free from the interruptions that mobile devices often bring.
As the new term approaches, Moray schools are preparing to implement these guidelines, which aim to strike a balance between leveraging technology for educational purposes and minimizing its potential for distraction and disruption.
