Your Child and School
Every school will have its own rules about the use of mobile phones. Most will have their rules and procedures outlined in their school policy. You can ask to see the policy if you are not sure what the rules are.
Most schools have their policies available on the school’s website.
You may want your child to have a phone because you worry about them travelling to and from school. This is a good idea as long as the mobile is kept safely away – preferably in a zipped pocket on the child’s person.
Some schools will ban the use of mobile phones during the school day. There are a number of reasons for this:
- the use of a phone in class to make or receive calls or texts is distracting to all learners
- mobile phones are expensive items and can be lost, damaged or stolen. A great deal of stress is caused for the pupil and the school community
- mobiles can be used to bully children and young people.
If your child is involved in mobile phone bullying or cyberbullying in school you can contact the school. They will put their procedures in place to support your child and help stop the bullying. If your child has been involved in carrying out the bullying they will help your child to stop.
The school will have an Acceptable Use Policy for the use of digital media in school. You can ask to see this or it may be available on the school’s website.
If necessary they will sometimes involve the School Community Police Officer (SCPO) who can provide support using restorative practices to help resolve conflict.