Benfield School is now phone-free during the school day. The change went live last week, with pupils and staff beginning a new routine from Thursday, 26 March.
From the moment pupils arrived at the gates, the shift was clear. Phones were switched off, placed into Yondr pouches, and locked before entering the site. Staff were on hand to guide pupils through the process, helping pupils understand the routine and what is expected each day.
The focus in the first week has been on building consistent routines and supporting pupils to understand the new expectations.
This change has been carefully planned. In the weeks leading up to launch, pupils attended assemblies led by senior staff. Tutor time sessions followed, giving pupils clear guidance on what would happen each day. Parents were invited into school to see the pouches and ask questions. Feedback from these sessions helped shape how the launch was delivered.
The system itself is simple. Each pupil has a Yondr pouch. At the start of the day, they switch off their phone, place it inside the pouch, and lock it before entering school. The pouch stays with them throughout the day. At the end of the day, it is unlocked as pupils leave the site.
This means phones remain safe, but out of use during school hours. Pupils take responsibility for their own devices, without the distraction that comes with it.
There are clear expectations. All pupils follow the same routine each day. The pouch becomes part of their standard equipment. Staff will continue to support pupils as the routine becomes embedded.
This approach is already in place in schools across the UK and beyond. Schools that have adopted phone-free days report improvements in focus, behaviour, and pupil interaction. National guidance has also placed increasing emphasis on reducing mobile phone use during the school day to support learning and wellbeing.
For further information:
External links:
- https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/behaviour-in-schools
- https://policyexchange.org.uk/publication/disconnected/
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education
- https://www.overyondr.com/case-studies
The change at Benfield links to a wider focus on behaviour, personal development, and readiness to learn. Removing phones during the day supports that work in a clear and practical way.
Support remains in place for families. Urgent messages can be passed on through the school office. Pupils can access their phones at the end of the day. Adapted pouches are available where needed for medical reasons.
The school will continue to review how the system is working. Feedback from pupils, staff, and parents will help shape the next steps.
Parents and carers: talk to your child about the routine and support them to follow it each day.
To find out more, visit the school website or contact the school office.