From August 2025, we will extend our existing mobile device policy to all year groups in both buildings in our Secondary School. Currently, Year 7 to Year 11 must switch off their phones and keep them in their bags or lockers from arrival until 15:40. Exceptionally, Year 12 and Year 13 students are allowed to use devices before school and at recess in the South Building. This change affects Year 12 and Year 13 students only.
ISL has been a mobile-device-free school through Year 11 for seven years. In that time, we have come to greatly value the benefits this affords our young people. There is a strong consensus between parents and the school that learning, well-being, and social interaction are all improved by the daily break from mobile devices. These benefits should extend to all students in the school.
There are four main advantages for students in schools where mobile device use is limited:
- Reduced distraction improves learning:
A major study by the London School of Economics found that banning phones during school hours increased test scores by up to 6 %, an effect equivalent to adding an extra hour of teaching each week. This benefit was especially strong for lower-achieving students. A meta-analysis of 39 studies confirmed a consistent negative correlation between mobile phone use and academic performance.
- Better classroom focus and behaviour:
In New South Wales, 87 % of principals reported fewer classroom distractions and 81 % observed improved learning after enforcing a mobile device-free campus.
- Less cyberbullying and improved social interaction:
Research suggests that restricting mobile device use contributes to a reduction in bullying incidents and increased social engagement. Limiting phone access during school hours makes face‑to‑face interaction easier and reduces opportunities for online harassment. Building time for in-person relationships supports well-being and a sense of connectedness to peers.
- Protection of mental health and sleep:
Although evidence is mixed, heavier smartphone use is linked to increased anxiety and reduced sleep. Reducing phone access during the school day aims to support students’ mental well-being and healthier sleep habits.
We are confident that a uniform and standardised policy school-wide will allow our students to continue developing healthy, productive face-to-face relationships with peers and reduce the potential risks associated with screentime.
Simon Foley
Secondary School Principal
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