How the UK plans to stop students from using phones inside the class, this is what Rishi Sunak says

Along with the video, the UK PM wrote, “We know how distracting mobile phones are in the classroom. Today we help schools put an end to this.”

The new guidance was issued by the British government on Monday, backing headteachers in prohibiting mobile phone usage throughout the school day, including at break times.

The decision was taken to “minimise disruption and improve behaviour in classrooms.”

“Many schools around the country are already prohibiting mobile phone use with great results,” read an official release, adding that the guidance ensures there is a consistent approach across the country.

As per data from the UK media watchdog Office of Communications (OFCOM), by the age of 12, 97% of children have their own mobile phone. Using mobile phones in schools can lead to online bullying, distraction, and classroom disruption which, in turn, can lead to lost learning time, the UK's Department for Education stated.

“Schools are places for children to learn and mobile phones are, at a minimum, an unwanted distraction in the classroom. We are giving our hard-working teachers the tools to take action to help improve behaviour and to allow them to do what they do best – teach,” Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said.

The UK government guidance responds to multiple concerns from parents regarding the use of mobile phones, with the latest data from charity ParentKind's National Parent Survey revealing that about 44% of parents are concerned about the amount of time their children spend on electronic devices, which rises to 50% for parents of secondary schoolchildren.

“Growing up in today’s digital world provides immense opportunities but this should not come at the expense of our children’s wellbeing or education. That is why we have passed world-leading legislation to make the UK the safest place in the world for young people to be online,” said Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan, adding that the latest announcement by the government will support parents and educators further, giving the next generation the best chance to realise their potential.

The latest move by the Rishi Sunak-led government has brought the UK in line with steps taken by other countries, including Italy, France, and Portugal, that have restricted mobile phone use in classrooms.