One of the biggest recent changes in our school has been the introduction of the new phone policy, which aims to improve focus and relationships, and this is what I will be discussing today.
During January, pupils at Garnock Community Campus received phone pouches to help improve focus in lessons and encourage positive relationships throughout the school. There are many people both for and against this policy. Some pupils are not receiving phone pouches due to prelims, and some senior pupils will not receive them as they are leaving the school.
The dates the phone pouches were introduced are:
- S1 – 5th January
- S2 – 6th January
- S3 – 7th January
- S4 – After exams
- S5 – After exams
- S6 – Not receiving pouches
There are several positives to this policy, as well as some negatives.
More Focus
One major benefit of the phone policy is improved focus. Better focus can lead to better test results and fewer distractions in class. This is positive because pupils can exceed their expectations and feel proud of their achievements. Notifications from phones can often distract pupils and make them want to check their devices, which breaks concentration. However, with phones locked in pouches inside school bags, these distractions are reduced. This can also help pupils feel more confident in completing tasks and pushing themselves.
Social Interactions
Another positive of the phone policy is improved social interactions. Statistics show that around 39% of bullying happens through phones, so not having access to phones during the school day may reduce this. Pupils are more likely to interact face to face, which helps build stronger friendships and better relationships with teachers and staff. Teachers are able to get to know pupils better, not just through a screen, which is beneficial for later life.
Using Time Wisely
Using time wisely is an important part of a pupil’s school journey. Many pupils take their phones to the bathroom, which can lead to time-wasting. This can result in pupils missing important explanations or examples. Teachers may then need to explain work again, as pupils have missed how to complete the task. Without phones, pupils are more likely to manage their time effectively.
Increase in Wellbeing
Another positive of the phone policy is an increase in wellbeing. Without phones in school, pupils may feel happier and more relaxed, as they are less likely to be involved in negative online behaviour. As wellbeing improves, pupils are more likely to engage with classwork and studying. The policy may also help improve sleep patterns and encourage better habits around phone use, leading to more sensible decision-making.
However, there are also some disadvantages to this policy.
Studying During Break and Lunch
Some pupils use their breaks and lunches to study for tests and prelims, and the phone policy can make this more difficult. Satchel One is used frequently for homework and revision, which may cause issues. However, there are ways to manage this. Pupils can ask a teacher to borrow a laptop, request a printed copy of work, or use time at home to complete tasks.
Noise
Some pupils use headphones during break and lunch to block out noise. With phones locked in pouches, headphones and music are no longer accessible, which may cause some pupils to feel overstimulated or uncomfortable. This can be managed by speaking to a member of staff, asking to spend break or lunch in a classroom, going for a walk outside, or seeking support from the pastoral team if needed.
Conclusion
Overall, the phone policy has both advantages and disadvantages. However, I believe that having this policy in place creates better opportunities for pupils and opens more doors to achieving their goals.
By Isla Heaney, S2
