Mobile Phone‑Free School: Frequently Asked Questions

What is changing? 
From the beginning of September 2026, The Portsmouth Academy will become a mobile phone‑free school during the school day. Students can still bring phones to school, but they will be locked within a pouch and not used during lessons or social time. The phones will remain in on the student's possession.  

Why are you introducing this? 
This change will help to improve focus in lessons, support student wellbeing, strengthen friendships and face-to-face communication, and create a calm, purposeful school environment. Many schools across Portsmouth are already taking this approach, with others to follow from this September too.  

How will this work each day? 
Students can still bring a phone to school if they need to. 

• When students arrive, phones must be turned off or on silent. 

• In morning line‑ups, students will put their phone into a safe pouch. Staff will help with this. 

• The pouch stays with the student all day, but they cannot open it. 

• In every lesson, the pouch must be placed on the desk. 

• At the end of the day, students can unlock their pouch before they leave school. 

• If a student needs their phone for an important reason, like a medical need, staff can unlock it for them. 

• Students who need their phone for medical reasons will get a special medical pouch. 

• At the end of the day, students must put their empty pouch in the box by the gate. They must not take pouches home. 

• Students must bring a bag big enough to keep the pouch safe. They should not carry the pouch in their hands. 

These rules help keep everyone safe and make sure learning is not disturbed. 

What if my child needs their phone during the day? 
If access is needed, staff will support this through supervised unlocking where appropriate. 

Will phones be safe? 
Yes. Phones remain with students in secure pouches throughout the day. Students will be expected to look after the pouch and their belongings as they normally would. 

What if my child needs their phone for medical reasons? 
We understand that some students require phone access for medical or individual needs. We will work directly with families to put appropriate arrangements in place. 

Can I still contact my child during the school day? 
Yes. If you need to contact your child urgently, please call the school office, who will pass the message on or approach them if you need to speak with them directly. We understand some parents have struggled to get through to us on occasion – that's why we’re investing in a new school phone system to address this challenge ready for next year.  

What happens if a student does not follow the rules? 
As with any school expectation, we will support students to follow the process. Where expectations are not met, appropriate behaviour systems will be applied. 

How will staff manage this? 
All staff will be trained and clear routines will be in place to ensure a consistent approach throughout the school day. 

Will there be further information? 
Yes. We will continue to share updates, including additional guidance on the school website and information shared directly with students ahead of the launch. 

How can I share feedback? 
We welcome your views and questions. Please use the link below to share your feedback: 

The Portsmouth Academy – Mobile Phone-Free School Feedback Form – Fill in form