A Phone-Free School Day at Felixstowe School

At Felixstowe School, we are proud to be a phone-free school from bell to bell. This policy reflects our commitment to creating a calm, focused and respectful learning environment where all students can thrive—socially, emotionally and academically.

What Does “Phone-Free” Mean?

From the moment students arrive on site until they leave at the end of the school day, mobile phones must not be seen or used.

Each morning, tutors will collect student phones at the beginning of the school day. These are stored in a purpose-built, lockable box in the tutor’s teaching room. Phones are kept securely throughout the day and are returned to students at the end of the final bell.

This system ensures that phones are safely stored, reduces temptation and distractions, and allows students to be fully present in school life.

Why Are We Doing This?

Mobile phones today are no longer just communication tools—they are powerful, always-connected devices that can have a serious impact on mental health, wellbeing and learning. Research and data from national surveys show:

• Rising anxiety, low self-esteem and sleep disruption linked to smartphone overuse.
• Distraction in lessons and reduced academic performance due to divided attention.
• Increased exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate content online.
• Disrupted social development, as real-life connections are replaced by screen time.

You can view our Phone-Free School Parent Presentation (click here) to learn more about the evidence behind this change and how it will support your child.

You can also find out move about the procedures for collecting in phones by watching this video

How Can My Child Contact Me?

If a student needs to contact home during the day, they can do so via their Personal Development Manager, tutor or through Student Services. If you need to get a message to your child during the school day, please contact the main office and we’ll ensure it reaches them promptly.

Where Can I Find More Information?

More details can be found in our updated Behaviour Policy which includes the full guidance on mobile phone use, expectations, and consequences for misuse.

Thank you for working with us to support this important change.
Together, we are protecting childhood, promoting learning, and prioritising wellbeing—for every student, every day.