How to review your mobile phone policy

Find out how to review your school's mobile phone policy with confidence, including questions to ask to help make sure it's robust. Use our model policy to see what good looks like, or use our checklist to make sure your school's policy is up to scratch.

Updated
on 19 August 2026
See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 38442
Contents
  1. Key facts
  2. Key points to look out for
  3. 3 key questions to challenge this policy
  4. Download our model policy
  5. Examples from schools

Key facts

  • This policy is based on the DfE's statutory mobile phones in schools guidance
  • The guidance says that schools should develop, implement and publish a policy that bans the use of mobile phones or similar devices during the school day
  • Your school's policy on mobile phones can be a standalone document, or included within the behaviour policy. Early years providers must cover the use of mobile phones and cameras in their child protection policy
  • You can delegate the approval of this policy to an individual or committee
  • The headteacher and senior leadership team (SLT) will write and be responsible for the implementation of this policy

Key points to look out for

Rules for different groups within your school

The sanctions for both staff and pupils breaking these rules should also be