As a state school, we are required to implement a phone rule that has student phones ‘away for the day’ as soon as possible in Term 1 2024 and no later than the start of Term 2 2024.

The Government has introduced regulations to put this requirement in place. These can be found at: Education (School Boards) Amendment Regulations 2023 – Parliamentary Counsel Office. These rules are intended to support and improve student engagement and achievement.

At Milford, student phone usage is currently covered under the Digital Safety Policy; however, to reflect the new regulations, we need to implement a specific 'Student Phone Rule.'

Under section 126 of the Education and Training Act 2020, the board must consult the school community when considering making a new school rule or making a significant change to an existing school rule. This includes implementing student phone rules at Milford. 

The consultation will help us to identify any concerns you may have so we can work together to address these.

Below is the DRAFT Student Phone Rules. I encourage you to read them carefully and share your feedback on the Google Form linked here:

STUDENT PHONE RULES CONSULTATION 

DRAFT STUDENT PHONE RULES 

International research indicates some key challenges with cell phones at school, such as being a major distraction for our students. These rules are designed to maximise the learning of all students while minimising any potential for distraction and cyberbullying. Our approach is 'away for the day', meaning the device is turned off and handed into the office to be locked away during the school day.

We strongly recommend students refrain from bringing devices (cell phones and Smart Watches) to school. It is important to note that if a student does decide to bring a cell phone or Smart Watch to school, they do so at their own risk. The school is not responsible for any loss or damage caused to the device.

We understand that some parents like their children to have a phone to communicate after school; cell phones will be available for students to collect at 3 pm. If a parent or caregiver needs to contact their child urgently, they should call the school office.

APPROPRIATE USAGE

There may be times when students can access and use their cell phones. However, this is the exception and will constantly be monitored by staff.

Learning activities

If cell phones are used for a learning activity, this will be at the teacher's discretion, and a staff member will supervise the phone's use. Guidelines on appropriate usage still apply.

Health and emergencies

Students with additional learning needs who use cell phones in class to increase or improve their ability to participate and learn will be granted an exemption. In matters related to a student's immediate health and safety concerns, a parent or caregiver can apply to the principal at any time for a period of exemption (e.g., medical conditions or protection issues).

Education outside the classroom (EOTC)
On school trips, phones must be switched off and placed in students' bags. Permission may be sought from the teacher to use the camera, but other mobile features must not be accessed. 

INAPPROPRIATE USAGE 
If staff see a student misusing a personal digital device without permission during the school day, the device will be confiscated and locked in the school office. It can only be collected by the parent or caregiver following a discussion with the teacher at the end of the school day. 

Breaches of the cell phone rules include (but not limited to):

• using the device when not permitted

• any sort of bullying, including online bullying

• taking photos or videos of other people without their permission

• forwarding inappropriate messages or content.

Please note that with all exemptions and exceptions, appropriate usage guidelines and other relevant school rules still apply.