Schools across the UK are increasingly looking for ways to reduce distractions, improve focus and help pupils build stronger social connections. One striking example is the recent experience at Holy Family RC & CE College in Heywood, Greater Manchester — where students now lock their phones away at the start of the school day.
A New Approach to Phone Use at School
At Holy Family College, pupils aged 11–16 are asked to place their mobile phones into secure Phone Locker pouches as they arrive in the morning. These remain locked until the end of the school day and are only opened again with a magnetic unlocking device.
Teachers introduced the policy to help students focus on learning and build better face-to-face relationships during lessons and at break times. According to school leaders, the impact has been noticeable:
- Fewer distractions in class: Students aren’t checking notifications or browsing social media during lessons.
- Better social interaction: Pupils are talking with peers more freely at break and lunchtime without the pressure of phones.
- Calmer classrooms: Headteacher Karen Ames reported a “remarkable impact” on the school environment since the scheme began.
One student said they no longer feel the need to check their phone constantly, and even notice their overall screen time has dropped significantly.
The Thinking Behind Phone-Free Schools
Holy Family’s approach is part of a broader trend, both in the UK and internationally, where schools are experimenting with ways to reduce the negative effects of mobile phones during the school day. Educators argue that locking phones away can:
- Improve focus and classroom engagement
- Reduce social pressure and online drama
- Increase peer interaction and wellbeing
This trend aligns with growing calls for stronger phone policies in schools. Some councils and education groups are urging all schools to adopt phone-free environments that require students to store devices securely until after lessons end.
But Does It Work Everywhere?
Not all implementations are identical. At Phone Locker we work with the school to devise a solution that works best for them. Whether that’s giving each child a pouch to take home, designated for certain year groups or if the school entrance process requires them to pick up a pouch each morning and drop it back at the end of the day.
What Parents and Schools Should Consider
Policies like these can be successful, but they also present questions that schools and families need to think through:
- Communication in emergencies: Schools must ensure pupils can still connect with parents if needed.
- Fair access: Consideration for medical devices or SEN needs is essential.
- Clear guidelines: Everyone — pupils, parents, teachers — needs to understand how the system works.
At Phone Locker, we help schools and organisations build simple, scalable phone-management systems that support learning and wellbeing from the first classroom to the last bell. Interested in how phone-free environments can work for your context? Contact our team to learn more.
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