A SECONDARY school in Teignbridge has announced a smartphone ban from this September.

Teign School is the latest in the district to become a ‘smartphone free school’ following an extensive consultation process involving students, parents, carers and staff.

The consultation generated significant engagement across the school community, with more than 300 responses received.

About 70 per cent of respondents were in support of the proposal.

Feedback highlighted strong support for measures aimed at improving student wellbeing, reducing distractions to learning, strengthening safeguarding, and helping young people develop healthier relationships with technology and social media.

The decision reflects growing national concern around the impact of smartphone use on children and young people, alongside increasing expectations for schools to create phone-free learning environments.

Recent Government announcements have indicated plans to strengthen national guidance around smartphone use in schools, with proposals expected to support phone-free environments throughout the school day.

Teign School has emphasised that the move is not anti-technology, but instead focused on ensuring the best possible conditions for learning, concentration, attendance, social interaction and personal development.

The school says it will continue working closely with students, families, staff and governors over the coming months to ensure a carefully planned and well-supported implementation process ahead of September 2026.

Last year, members of Devon Council Council overwhelmingly supported a countywide ban on student smartphone use during the school day from the start of the next academic year in September 2026.

Students at Teignmouth Community School have already been without their phones for nine months.

In September 2025, the school ruled students had to either need to leave their mobile phones at home or lock their devices in a special mobile phone pouch during the school day.

Lucie Wagner, Headteacher at Teign School, said: ‘Throughout this consultation process, we have listened carefully to students, families and staff, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute their views.

‘While there were naturally a range of perspectives shared, there was clear support for taking positive steps to improve wellbeing, focus and social interaction during the school day.

‘This decision is not about rejecting technology.

‘Digital literacy remains hugely important. Instead, it is about creating an environment where students can learn, build relationships and thrive without the constant distraction and pressures that smartphones can sometimes bring.’

Rob Coles, Trust Lead at Education South West, said:

‘At Education South West, we are committed to creating school environments where young people feel safe, supported and fully able to engage in their education.

‘Teign School has approached this process thoughtfully and collaboratively, ensuring that the voices of students, families and staff have shaped the decision.

‘We know schools across the country are increasingly reflecting on the impact smartphones can have on learning and wellbeing, and Teign’s approach places student development and pastoral care firmly at the centre of the conversation.’