A Shared Approach to Smartphone Use in the Thame Partnership of Schools
We are writing to outline our common approach to the use of smartphones by pupils within the Thame Partnership of schools.
Many primary schools within the partnership already have policies in place not permitting pupils to use smartphones or smartwatches on school sites applying to children from Reception through to Year 6. While policies will vary slightly between schools (Some prohibit students from bringing smartphones onto the premises, while others require students to hand them in on arrival) all schools are smartphone free during the school day.
Why do we limit smartphone use
Although smartphones offer many benefits for adults, a growing body of research highlights concerns about their impact on children's wellbeing and development. Increased smartphone use has been linked to higher levels of anxiety, low mood, online bullying, exposure to inappropriate content, reduced concentration, disrupted sleep patterns and decreased face-to-face social interaction.
As educators, we want children to experience a school environment that promotes learning, healthy friendships and meaningful real-world connections. Schools that have reduced or removed access to smartphones have reported positive outcomes, including improved focus in lessons, calmer school environments, stronger social interaction during breaks, better behaviour and fewer safeguarding concerns.
We recognise that there may be exceptional circumstances where a device is necessary, such as supporting a medical condition. Schools will consider these situations carefully and make reasonable adjustments where appropriate. Each school will communicate the practical details of implementation directly with families.
However, we recognise that much of children's screen use takes place beyond the school day, which is why the support for families is so important.
Working Together to Support Children
Where a child requires a phone for practical reasons, such as travelling independently, a basic mobile phone without internet access can provide a safe alternative while still allowing communication when needed.
We understand that many families feel pressure to provide smartphones at an increasingly young age, even when they have reservations about doing so. By adopting a consistent approach across our schools, we hope to reduce this pressure and help parents make decisions that best support their children's wellbeing.
We appreciate your support as we work together to create an environment where children can learn, thrive and enjoy their childhood free from unnecessary digital pressures.
Yours sincerely,
Signed by the following Thame Partnership Schools;
Aston Rowant School - Helen France, Headteacher
Cuddington & Dinton Church of England School - Nicola Wilde, Headteacher
Haddenham Infants School - Lucy McNeal, Headteacher
Haddenham Junior School - Andy Leach, Headteacher
John Hampden Primary School - Paul Hankey, Executive Headteacher
Mill Lane Primary School - Tinike van der Ploeg, Headteacher
Tetsworth Primary School - Paul Hankey, Executive Headteacher
St Andrews Church of England School, Chinnor - Annette Mashru, Headteacher
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School - Elizabeth Sienkiewicz, Headteacher
