Mobile Phone Policy & Use

As we continue to create calm, connected and safe learning environments, we are strengthening our approach to mobile phone use across the school from the beginning of Term 4. This aligns with the Victorian Department of Education’s Mobile Phones Policy, which requires that students switch off and securely store their mobile phones during the entire school day, including recess and lunch.

The policy is grounded in research showing that limiting phone use during school hours:

• Supports learning and focus by reducing distraction, improving engagement, and strengthening performance in learning outcomes
• Promotes wellbeing, social connectedness and school safety
• Encourages positive relationships, helping students to connect face-to-face and contribute to a culture of respect
• Decreases social conflict, exclusion and bullying

Educating for Change

We recognise that technology is part of our students’ world. Our focus is to educate, supporting young people to manage their relationship with devices in healthy, balanced ways.

In Term 4, 2025, we will engage students in a whole-school education program that includes:

• Year Level assemblies exploring how mobile phones impact learning and wellbeing
•  Learning activities within our Form program
• Information for families on promoting positive digital habits at home

In-Class Process – Consistent and Fair

To ensure clarity and fairness, all staff will follow a consistent process when a student is observed with a phone in class.

1.Observation: A student is observed using or handling a phone (including AirPods or other linked devices) during class time.

2. Staff Action: The staff member requests that the student hand over the phone using calm and consistent language.

If compliant:

• The device is taken to the front office for secure storage.
• The confiscation is recorded on Compass.
• After three confiscations, a parent/guardian will be contacted to collect the phone. The student will then hand their phone in each morning for a period of one week.

If non-compliant:

• The teacher follows the Classroom Withdrawal Staged Response, aligned with our SWPBS framework, using calm, consistent language, allowing for take-up time conferencing to support compliance.
• If the student is withdrawn, the Mobile Phone Non-Compliance Staged Response commences.

In-Yard Process – Consistent and Fair

To ensure consistency across all areas of the school, the same expectations apply in the yard as in the classroom.

1. Observation A student is observed using or handling a phone (including AirPods or other linked devices) while in the yard.
2. Staff Action The staff member requests that the student hand over the phone using calm and consistent language.

If compliant:

• The device is taken to the front office for secure storage. The confiscation is recorded on Compass. After three confiscations, a parent/guardian will be contacted to collect the phone. The student will then hand their phone in each morning for a period of one week.

If non-compliant: A Refusal post is made on Compass.

ਦ Mobile Phone Non-Compliance Staged Response commences, following the same process as classroom non-compliance.

Mobile Phone Non-Compliance – Staged Response (Implemented from Term 4)

1.First Occasion – Class Withdrawal or Refusal in Yard

• Student withdrawn from class or refusal recorded in the yard.
• Year Level Team contacts home and documents the incident.

2. Second Occasion

• Student sent home with reflective work on the impact of phones on learning and wellbeing.
• Student hands in their phone each morning to the Year Level or Front Office for two weeks.

3.Third Occasion

• Suspension and a Parent/Carer Meeting.
• Student and family agree that, upon return, the phone will be handed in each morning for two weeks.
• Referral made to the Wellbeing Team for participation in the Mobile Phone Addiction Education Program. If a student fails to comply with this agreement, they will be sent home, and the matter may lead to further actions.

Our School Approach – Reflecting Our Values

Belonging: We create safe, inclusive learning spaces where everyone can connect without distraction.

Respect: We follow shared expectations that protect learning time and support each other’s right to focus.

Growth: We help students build independence, self-regulation and healthy digital habits for success beyond school.

Understanding: We recognise that changing habits takes time and support, and we work in partnership with families to guide students.

Together, through Belonging, Respect, Growth and Understanding, we can help our students stay present, connected and focused on their learning.

Please provide any feedback or concerns to the via or email James.mcgavisk@education.vic.gov.au by Friday 11th October.