Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A personal mobile device is any device that can be used to communicate with or access the internet, such as a mobile phone, tablet, gaming device, laptop, or smartwatch. This also includes devices capable of communicating with a mobile device such as Bluetooth devices (e.g. earbuds, headphones, speakers).

We understand that at times a parent may want to contact their child during the school day. In such a situation, we ask parents to follow our current policy of calling the school office and a message will be delivered to your child immediately.

They can ask a teacher to contact you through the school office.

Yes, but it must remain switched off and out of sight during the school day.

Usually, yes — unless there’s repeated misuse, in which case a parent will need to collect it.

Only if it does not have a camera or 4G, and Bluetooth is switched off.

All KS3 and KS4 learners are given a copy of their timetable at the start of the year and can keep these in their pencil cases. Staff also have access to pupil timetables, and are able to print them put. Help is at hand if needed. 

All pupils have access to chrome books in school for working online, and all homework tasks are set using Google Classroom, which they can also access from home.

Some learners will be allowed to use their phones for educational or medical purposes (e.g. for apps that monitor diabetes, translation apps etc.). However, this usage has to be agreed with the school either as part of their health care plan or ALN review. Parents/carers will be informed immediately of any improper use e.g. playing games or accessing social media while pretending to use their phones for educational or medical reasons.

While we trust many students do, this policy ensures consistent expectations and safety for all.

Phone addiction is a growing concern for many of us. There will be times when young people and adults have to go without their mobile phone for various reasons e.g. mobile phones are not allowed in any exam room. We feel it is better to educate and support learners and young people now, before it becomes a more serious problem.

Misuse of a mobile phone at school will be taken seriously. A serious break of the rules will be dealt with using the school’s Behaviour Policy. What counts as "misuse" will be decided by the Headteacher.

What’s Not Allowed?

Years 7–11:

• Phones must be switched off and out of sight from arrival to departure.
• No use during breaks, lunches, or in any lesson, including PE and exams.
• Headphones and Bluetooth devices are also banned.
• Students may not use phones to contact parents during the day.

Smartwatches:

• Devices with 4G or cameras are not allowed on school premises.
• Fitness trackers must have Bluetooth disconnected before entering school.

Years 12–13:

• May use phones only within the Sixth Form area.
• All other areas follow the same rules as the lower school.

Examples of more serious misuse:

• Sending rude, mean or inappropriate messages
• Posting mean or inappropriate things on social media or blogs
• Taking photos or videos while at school without permission
• Taking pictures or videos of other students or staff without their knowledge or permission
• Taking photos or videos in private areas like toilets or changing rooms
• Using your phone to bully, scare, embarrass or upset other students or staff through texts, emails or videos
• Using your phone outside school time to upset or scare other students or staff – this is still breaking the rules
• Using your phone outside school in a way that causes problems for the school or makes it hard for us to maintain a safe and respectful place for everyone
• Setting up situations to record others just to embarrass or upset them, especially if shared online (like on YouTube or Facebook)
• Bullying through texts, images, or emails
• Sending or sharing inappropriate or sexual pictures or messages (‘sexting’)
• Posting things online that could hurt someone’s feelings or damage their reputation
• Writing disrespectful or false things about teachers or other students
• Sharing photos of students who are vulnerable or may be under child protection – this could put them at risk

If a student breaks the rules:

• Phone will be confiscated until the end of the day.
• Serious breaches may lead to:
  • Behaviour log entry
  • Parental collection of the device
  • Internal or external exclusion
  • Police involvement, if criminal activity is suspected

Repeated Offences:

• May result in a permanent or fixed-term phone ban.
• Ongoing issues will be monitored and may trigger safeguarding referrals.

The SWGfL (South West Grid for Learning) has some great advice and resources to support parents.