Beyond the Ban: what phone-free schools mean for behaviour, regulation & wellbeing

As conversations around phone-free schools grow, many settings are reviewing or tightening their approach. For some, this feels like a positive step. For others, it raises important questions about pupil wellbeing, regulation and inclusion. So what difference will removing phones actually make day to day, and is it likely to lead to the changes schools are hoping for?

Reducing access to phones may help with focus and distraction for some pupils. At the same time, it can highlight deeper questions about what’s really driving behaviour and wellbeing, and what needs to be in place to support pupils effectively. There isn’t one approach that works for every pupil or every context, and lasting change comes from understanding what sits beneath behaviour and wellbeing.

In this session, Viv Trask-Hall will be joined by guest speaker Amy Sayer to explore these themes. Drawing on Thrive’s neuroscience-informed, child development approach, alongside Amy’s experience as a former senior leader and mental health lead, they’ll discuss the extent to which phones are really driving behaviour and wellbeing in schools.

They’ll also explore the wider role phones now play in children’s lives, including connection with parents and carers, tracking, reassurance and exposure to online content.

You’ll come away with:

• What introducing or tightening phone-free approaches is likely to change, and what it won’t

• Why behaviour and engagement don’t always improve in the ways schools expect when phones are removed

• Practical ways to support pupil regulation when phones are no longer available as a coping tool

• How to maintain consistent expectations around phone use without adding to staff pressure