JOHN Kyrle High School is launching a new initiative aimed at improving student wellbeing and focus by limiting mobile phone use during the school day.

Beginning Monday, June 30, all students in years seven, eight, nine and ten will take part in a trial phase of a new mobile phone policy using secure mobile phone pouches.

This three-week trial period is designed to help the school community learn valuable lessons about implementation, gather feedback, and make any necessary adjustments before a full rollout in September.

The decision follows growing concerns from staff and parents about the impact of smartphones on young people’s concentration, social development, and mental health.

Despite an existing mobile phone policy, staff report that many students struggle to resist the pull of their devices, leading to frequent distractions and disciplinary issues.

“We want John Kyrle to be a place where students can take a break from their screens, build meaningful relationships, and fully engage in their education,” said Luke Moseley, the school’s deputy headteacher.

“This trial will help us understand how best to support that goal.”

The pouches are lockable, tamper-proof cases that students will use to store their phones during school hours.

The pouches using technology similar to that used in anti-theft devices in shops.

Phones will be locked in the pouches during morning tutor time and students will keep the pouches in their bag, before unlocking their pouch at the end of the day using one of 25 unlocking stations spread around the school site.

Throughout the trial period students will receive training enabling the school to gather feedback through the student council and conduct reviews throughout the trial period.

“We believe this change will have a lasting positive impact on our school community,” added Dr. Moseley. “By working together, we can help our students thrive both academically and socially.”

For more information or to share feedback, parents and guardians are invited to contact the school via [email protected].