Deer Park School in Botley and Wildern School in Hedge End have announced a total ban on smartphones and smart devices across their sites from September 2026.
The schools’ trust, RAISE Education Trust, said the move follows new Department for Education guidance and supports pupil wellbeing.
It is part of a wider effort to delay children’s exposure to smartphones and reduce online pressures.
The move has been welcomed by a campaigner.
Wildern School. (Image: Google Maps)
Clare Fernyhough, co-founder of the Smartphone Free Childhood and Generation Focus, said: “There is no place for smartphones in schools – and the fact that more and more schools in Hampshire are now choosing to prohibit these devices is extremely encouraging.
“Smartphones are disastrous for pupils’ ability to focus, learn and interact with their peers. They also pose major safeguarding risks.
“Banning them completely is also the only way to encourage parents to delay giving their children a device in the first place.
“When parents and schools support each other, that’s when we will see the greatest change in our communities.”
The schools have said that parents may provide a basic “brick phone” for travel safety, as long as it does not have a camera, internet access or apps.
These phones must remain switched off and kept in bags during the school day.
Only students with medical or SEND needs may be considered for exceptions, and all arrangements must be formally agreed in advance.
The trust said that smartphones marketed as “locked down” will not be allowed, as staff cannot realistically check their functionality.
Parents are encouraged to support the policy by delaying smartphone use, modelling appropriate behaviour, and using the school office for urgent communication.
Deer Park School. (Image: Google)
The trust stressed that parental backing will be vital to the success of the new rules.
Michelle Marsh, headteacher of Saint James Church of England Primary School, welcomed the decision.
She said she is “thrilled to see more schools taking this bold and positive step,” adding that when communities unite behind children’s wellbeing “we create the conditions for them to thrive”.
RAISE Education Trust said the full ban aims to reduce classroom distractions, promote healthy relationships, and build resilience.
Do you support the ban? Let us know in the comments