By reducing distractions, we aim to create a calmer, more focused atmosphere in which students can fully engage with their lessons, build stronger relationships with their peers and develop healthy habits around using technology.
This approach reflects both national guidance and our commitment to supporting every student to thrive academically and personally in a positive, inclusive setting.
For more information, please read our letter to parents (1st June 2026).
The pouch system ensures phones aren’t accessible during the school day, helping create a calm, focused environment that supports student wellbeing, behaviour and engagement.
Students place their phone into a locked Yondr pouch at the start of the school day. The pouch stays with the student throughout the day and is unlocked at the end using designated unlocking stations. The process is quick and students typically don’t need to stop walking.
Yes. Phones can be used before arriving at school and after leaving the school site. They’re only secured during the school day.
No. All learning resources are provided by the school, so students don’t need personal mobile devices during lessons.
Yes. The phone stays with the student throughout the day in a secure pouch. The pouch offers some additional protection, though it shouldn’t replace a protective case or screen protector.
Where appropriate, students may be issued with an alternative pouch, such as a Velcro or non-locking version, to support approved medical needs like diabetes monitoring apps. These arrangements are agreed in advance with the school.
Students can still bring these items to school for use before and after the day. They can be placed inside the pouch if students wish.
Students follow staff instructions and school safety procedures. Phone use during emergencies can delay responses and spread misinformation, so all communication with families is managed directly through the school.
Contact the school office. Urgent messages will be passed on promptly. If a student needs to contact home, office staff will support them.
The phone will be confiscated and returned in line with the school behaviour policy. Searches may also be carried out where staff reasonably believe a student is concealing a phone.
If a pouch is forgotten, the phone will be securely stored in the school office until the end of the day. Accidental damage should be reported immediately. Intentional damage or tampering, including using magnets, will be treated as a serious behaviour matter and may result in sanctions or replacement charges.
The school office has an unlocking device available for students who arrive late or need to leave early for appointments or other authorised reasons.
Non-compliance with the pouch system is treated as a serious issue and is dealt with in line with the academy’s behaviour and phone-free policies.
If you have additional concerns or questions, please call us on 01332 831515 or email [email protected].
