<p>The measure, introduced under the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, came into force on Monday and transforms previous government guidance into a statutory legal requirement. Schools must ensure that pupils do not access smartphones during lessons, breaktimes or lunchtime, although limited exemptions are permitted for medical reasons and, in certain circumstances, for sixth-form students.</p><p>The Department for Education said the policy is intended to reduce classroom distractions, tackle cyberbullying, improve concentration and encourage face-to-face social interaction among pupils.</p><p>While schools have flexibility in deciding how to enforce the ban, many are expected to require students to keep phones switched off and out of sight, place them in secure lockers, or use lockable pouches throughout the school day.</p><p>Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the legislation is designed to create a consistent, distraction-free learning environment in every school. The government maintains that excessive smartphone use has negatively affected pupils' academic performance, mental wellbeing and behaviour.</p><p>The new law also strengthens the role of Ofsted, which is expected to assess whether schools are effectively implementing and enforcing their mobile phone policies during inspections.</p><p>Teachers' groups have broadly welcomed the move, arguing that many schools already operated similar policies and that making them a legal requirement provides greater consistency nationwide. However, some education leaders have called for flexibility in exceptional circumstances, particularly for older students and those with specific health or accessibility needs.</p><p>England joins a growing number of countries introducing nationwide restrictions on smartphone use in schools as governments seek to reduce digital distractions and improve educational outcomes.</p><p>Photo credit: uk.news.yahoo</p>