a day ago
Your say whether or not mobile phones should be banned
The debate over whether pupils should be allowed mobile phones in schools has clearly struck a nerve on the Argus Facebook page, with many expressing strong opinions about the impact phones have on young people's learning and well-being.
The vast majority of responses called for stricter rules, with some even demanding a full ban.
Some, like Claire Barker, suggested a straightforward approach to the issue.
She said: "They should hand them in as soon as they get to school, and collect when they leave for home."
This idea was echoed by others who believe that removing phones from the classroom would cut out distractions.
Many pointed to the success of bans abroad.
Elizabeth Hannis said: "They are banned in schools in the Netherlands and in Australia as well.
"It's been implemented well and there are exceptions in place – in have family in the Netherlands and it works very well and not many issues.
"I was a secondary school English teacher and the distraction these phones cause is just beyond ridiculous – there is no need to have them unless you have reasons to be exempt."
For these readers, the international examples showed that phone bans can work with the right policies.
A number of readers felt that schools already provide ways to deal with emergencies.
Andrew Read said: "Yes! f there's an emergency, go to the office in reception and use the phone there."
Reenie Hayes agreed, making a similar point: "If there is an emergency the school can contact who needs to be contacted."
However, not everyone thought a blanket ban is the best solution.
Ryan West called for more parental responsibility. He said that "Parents need to take more responsibility. Set limits. Don't allow apps that are not for their age. Monitor content. Teach them to respect others opinions even if they don't like the people."
He added that he had "heard to many stories of issues of bullying online that could have been avoided if the parent said no".
Other readers raised concerns about children's safety outside school.
Chris LK said: "Think they should be banned in schools but pupils need them on the way to & from school.
"My daughter used to have to catch buses to & from school every day and needed to contact us if ever the bus failed to arrive…"
A few shared personal stories about why a ban might not work for every child.
Samantha Gadsden said: "One of my children really struggled with secondary and are now in an alternative provision after I raised safeguarding concerns about the school.
"I dread to think what would have happened if their phone had been removed."
As the debate continues, it is clear that parents, teachers and pupils all have strong feelings on the topic.
