Update to Mobile Phone Use in Classrooms

Dear Parents/Guardians, Students, and Colleagues,

We are writing to inform you of an update to our mobile phone policy at Salesian Secondary College. Following consultation with teachers and students and after a review, we are introducing a new Classroom Mobile Phone Use Procedure that allows for the supervised and responsible use of mobile phones for teaching and learning purposes only. 

This approach will be done on a trial basis. Any systemic effect where mobile phone usage becomes haphazard and unregulated, then we will need to return to a full ban on phone usage in our school. There should be no change in the visibility of phones on campus.

What’s Changing?

Previously, mobile phones were required to remain switched off and stored in a pouch throughout the school day. From Monday 17th, under the new procedure, students may now use their mobile phones during lessons when instructed by their teacher for educational activities. This change recognises that mobile technology, when used appropriately, can enhance learning and support students in accessing digital resources, research, and learning platforms.

 Key Points for Students

•  Mobile phones may only be used in class when directed by your teacher for a specific learning activity.
• When in use, phones must be placed flat on the desk so the teacher can see what is on the screen.
• At all other times, phones must remain on silent (with notifications and vibrations turned off) and stored securely in your mobile phone pouch or at the school office if you do not have your pouch.
• Acceptable uses include: accessing Google Classroom, Kahoot, or Quizlet; conducting research; using the calculator or timer; taking photos of notes (with permission); and listening to educational audio with headphones.
• Unacceptable uses include texting, social media, gaming, photography or recordings without permission, and browsing non-educational content.
• Mobile phones are not permitted during cover/substitution lessons or assessments unless specifically authorised.

Key Points for Parents/Guardians

We ask for your support in reinforcing the responsible and respectful use of mobile phones with your child. The policy is designed to promote focus and minimise distractions while embracing the educational benefits of technology. If a phone is misused, teachers will follow a clear procedure: a verbal warning, confiscation until the end of the lesson or day, and contact home if the behaviour continues. Please discuss these expectations with your child and ensure they understand the importance of following teacher instructions.

Key Points for Teachers

Teachers retain full discretion over when and how mobile phones may be used in their classrooms. However, you are asked to provide clear instructions to students when phones are required for learning activities and to monitor use during lessons. At the end of each lesson where phones have been used, it is your professional responsibility to ensure that all devices are returned to the designated mobile phone pouch and securely locked. Misuse should be addressed promptly in line with the procedure outlined.

 School Approach

This updated procedure balances the educational opportunities that mobile technology offers with the need to maintain a focused, respectful, and productive learning environment. The policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to meet the needs of our school community. We appreciate your cooperation and support as we implement this change. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office or your child’s Year Head.

Thank you to the committee, led by Mr Ryan for your development of this procedure.

Kind regards,