The Education Secretary in England has recommended a ban on mobile phones in schools to counteract disruptive behavior and enhance students’ focus during lessons. This guidance suggests prohibiting mobile usage throughout the school day, including break times, aiming to address issues like online bullying. This proposal follows a UN report advocating for a global ban on smartphones in schools to minimize classroom disturbances, with countries such as France, Finland, and China having already instituted such bans. Despite this initiative, no similar plans exist for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

However, this recommendation has sparked debate among various stakeholders. A teaching union leader has expressed concerns that a blanket ban could potentially exacerbate behavior problems. In contrast, internet safety advocates argue that the focus on mobile phones in schools does not tackle the broader issue of harmful online content on tech platforms. Ian Russell, whose daughter tragically died after accessing dangerous online material, emphasizes the need for stronger online safety laws. Beeban Kidron and Esther Ghey, aligning with Russell’s concerns, call for more stringent measures against tech companies for their role in exposing children to harmful content.

While Gillian Keegan, the Education Secretary, views mobile phones as disruptive and is pushing for their ban to improve classroom behavior, critics argue that such a measure does not address the risks children face online outside school environments. Calls for a comprehensive approach to online safety and stricter regulation of tech companies underscore the ongoing debate over how best to protect young people in the digital era.