A borough in London is taking steps to prohibit smartphones in its educational institutions.
Starting in September, 103 primary schools in Barnet will enforce a ban on smartphones during school hours, while 23 secondary schools are aiming to eliminate smartphone use throughout the school day entirely.
This information comes from the charity Smartphone Free Childhood (SFC), which describes the initiative as “groundbreaking.” The policy has been enabled through collaboration among school administrators, Barnet Public Health, MP Dan Tomlinson, and the SFC community.
The charity is urging parents to postpone smartphone purchases for their children until they reach at least 14 years old and to restrict their access to social media until the age of 16.
According to SFC, beginning this year, all incoming Year 7 students in the north London borough will be banned from bringing smartphones to school through Year 11.
The SFC claims that this marks the first initiative of its kind in the United Kingdom.
The organization points out that over 63,000 children attending state schools in Barnet will have the opportunity to experience a seven-hour period each day where they can “learn, socialize, and develop, free from addictive technology.”
Nova Eden, regional leader for north London at the charity, commented: “There is substantial evidence indicating a direct relationship between smartphone and social media use in young children and the increasing instances of depression, anxiety, and self-harm.”
“Our goal is to shield children from the hazards posed by smartphones and social media, allowing them to partake in a play-based childhood filled with positive growth—far removed from screens and devices.”
“When parents, schools, and educational leaders collaborate, we can achieve significant progress for the forthcoming generation,” added the mother of three.
BBC London sought public opinion on the new policy.
One student shared, “I believe this will really enhance student engagement in their education.”
Another individual noted, “I feel it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of limiting phone use in schools and to initiate these conversations at home.”
A mother remarked, “We rely on smartphones to monitor our son’s travels and to ensure his safety.”
The SFC also recommends alternatives for parents, such as “brick” phones that only offer calling and texting capabilities, or other models that allow access to podcasts and music but do not connect to the internet.
Eden clarified, “We are not advocating for a complete ban on phones, just those that expose children to online risks.”
“Until these platforms can ensure safety for children, the potential dangers greatly outweigh any advantages smartphones may provide.”
This initiative follows a similar announcement from Ealing Council last month, where more than 70 primary schools in the area committed to becoming smartphone-free.
Currently, the total number of schools in north London striving toward a smartphone-free environment has reached 250, according to the SFC.
“This reflects the unfortunate reality of modern childhood—children do not need smartphones; they need a fulfilling childhood. It’s imperative that the government addresses this situation promptly,” Eden concluded.
Dan Tomlinson, MP for Chipping Barnet, stated: “Smartphone usage among schoolchildren distracts from their education and poses significant risks to their mental health and well-being. I appreciate the efforts of Smartphone Free Childhood and educators in Barnet for prioritizing children’s safety.”
The BBC has reached out to Barnet Council for their response.
