Mobile Technology use
Mobile technology use (mobile phones, smartwatches & tablets)
Mobile technology use forms an important part of how we create a focused and safe learning environment at West Kirby School & College. We want to ensure we work together to support your child’s educational journey and wellbeing.
Our experience shows that when pupils can fully engage with learning without digital distractions, they develop stronger social connections and achieve better outcomes. This is particularly important for our students, who may find it challenging to regulate their attention and manage social interactions whilst having access to mobile devices.
Mobile Technology Policy
Please find key points below from our mobile technology policy:
Primary, KS3 & KS4 (Years 7-11)
Our policy requires that:
- Mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches are not brought into school.
- In the event a device is brought into school, it should be handed to a staff member at the start of the day.
- Mobile devices will be safely stored and will be returned to escorts, parents or carers at the end of the day.
We understand that some parents feel more secure knowing their child has a phone for the journey to and from school. If your child travels with a mobile device, we have a simple and secure system in place.
Post 16
Our policy requires that:
- Mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches are used appropriately and only at certain times. These times are: before morning registration, at breaktime, at lunchtime and at the end of the school day while waiting for transport home.
- Digital devices should not be used at any other times, unless a student has been given permission by staff.
- All digital devices should be put away in their bag or coat pocket and put on silent.
Why is this policy so important for our school community?
- It helps reduce anxiety and social pressure that can come from social media and constant connectivity.
- It supports our pupils in developing face-to-face social skills and building meaningful relationships.
- It minimises potential triggers that might affect our pupils' emotional regulation.
- It protects expensive devices from damage or loss.
- It helps maintain our safeguarding standards and prevents inappropriate phone use.
We recognise that technology plays an important role in modern life, and we teach digital skills through our curriculum in controlled, educational contexts. However, we find that having a clear boundary around personal device use during the school day helps our pupils feel more secure and focused.
How to contact your child during the school day
Please telephone our school office, and we will ensure any urgent messages reach them promptly. Similarly, if your child needs to contact you, we will facilitate this through the appropriate school channels.
We appreciate the support of parents and carers in maintaining these important boundaries. Working together on this policy helps us create the calm, focused environment that enables our pupils to thrive.