It is not just teachers who have been making sure pupils follow the rules.<\/p>\n
“It’s going alright, but some people do bring phones – we’ve found them out,” Enzo shared.<\/p>\n
Sidney said phones are better left at home: “I think it’s better instead of people taking pictures and sending rude words online.”<\/p>\n
Robyn agreed, saying her parents have forbidden her from taking one to school.<\/p>\n
Students also said it was changing their friendship dynamics<\/a>.<\/p>\n “Instead of making friends on TikTok, Snapchat or gaming platforms, you can make friends in real-life with real connections,” Year 7 student Thea said.<\/p>\n Arush, who will be sitting his GCSEs next year, said the ban has caused him and his friends to reflect.<\/p>\n “While [friends] are studying, they’re leaving their phones downstairs or in their parents’ room so they’re not addicted to it,” he said.<\/p>\n Acknowledging a culture shift for her students, Baker said: “I’m interested to track this throughout this year to see how far we might continue this policy.”<\/p>\n Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, external<\/a>, on X, external<\/a> and on Instagram, external<\/a> and listen to BBC Radio Kent on Sounds<\/a>. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk, external<\/a> or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.<\/p>\n