UK Education Secretary Calls for Smartphone Ban in Classrooms

Bridget Phillipson urges stricter enforcement of phone-free policies and highlights the harm caused by social media in schools.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated that smartphones are disruptive in classrooms and reaffirmed the government's support for banning their use during the school day.
Phillipson tasked officials with monitoring smartphone policies in schools to ensure consistent enforcement across England.
A survey by the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) revealed widespread issues with social media, including bullying, deepfake misuse, and access to harmful content by students.
ASCL President Manny Botwe criticized social media platforms for enabling harm and called for stronger accountability measures under the new Online Safety Act.
Phillipson also addressed broader challenges in education, including school attendance, special education support, and funding concerns for initiatives like free breakfast programs.