The New South Wales Government has officially banned the use of mobile phones in high schools across the state in a significant move aimed at promoting better concentration and enhancing student well-being. The decision, which came into effect this term throughout NSW, marks a substantial shift in educational policy and has sparked a nationwide debate on the role of technology in the classroom.  

Kiama High School implemented these changes at the beginning of the year and so are way ahead of the game. Kiama High School Principal Catherine Glover says the results have been ‘absolutely fantastic’ and they have not had to confiscate many phones to date.  

She says they “have struck a good balance” and the students are fully on board with the changes.  Their classes are more settled and the void left by the phone absence has been filled with games such as chess in the playground.  Ms Glover says that the students are more social and there are minimal office disruptions from students needing to ‘phone home’.

Under the new policy, students in public high schools are prohibited from using their mobile phones during school hours, including breaks. This ban extends to the use of phones in classrooms, corridors, and common areas. While mobile phones will still be allowed on school premises, they must remain switched off and stored in lockers or designated areas during the school day. The only exceptions will be for medical reasons or with explicit teacher permission for educational purposes.

"This ban creates a level playing field across all NSW public schools and means students can focus on what's most important – learning in the classroom, " Education Minister Prue Car said.

The ban, introduced after months of consultation with educators, parents, and students, aims to address several pressing concerns in the education system. These include:

Reducing Distractions: One of the primary motivations behind the ban is to minimise distractions in the classroom. Research has shown that even a brief glance at a notification or text message can disrupt a student's concentration, impacting their ability to learn effectively.

Improving Mental Health: Excessive use of mobile phones, including social media, has been linked to increased anxiety and depression among teenagers. By limiting access to mobile devices during school hours, the NSW Department of Education hopes to create a more positive and focused learning environment.

Fostering Face-to-Face Interaction: Concerns about the decline in face-to-face communication skills among students have also played a role in the decision. The ban aims to encourage students to engage in meaningful, in-person interactions with their peers and teachers.

Preventing Cyberbullying: The ban is expected to reduce instances of cyberbullying, as it will be more challenging for students to engage in harmful online behaviour during school hours.

The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from various stakeholders. While some parents and teachers have applauded the move, believing it will lead to improved academic performance and well-being, others have expressed concerns about practicality and potential resistance from students.

Students' reactions have been especially diverse. While some view the ban as an infringement on their personal freedom, others are open to the idea of a less-distracting learning environment.  Local Year 12 students (pictured) agreed that the absence of devices forced them to be more sociable and interact more actively.  They generally felt it was a favourable move that had benefited their friendships. 

The ban is not without its challenges. Schools will need to develop clear policies for enforcing the ban, addressing exceptions, and ensuring that students' phones are secure when not in use. Ms Glover says that Kiama High School have nearly completed their procedural documents around the innovation.

The ban on mobile phones in NSW high schools represents a significant shift in education policy aimed at improving concentration and student well-being. While it has generated both support and opposition, its ultimate impact on the education system and students' lives will become clearer as it is implemented around the state.  For Kiama it seems to have been a fairly seamless integration into school life.