The government has now introduced regulations that require schools to ensure students do not use or access a phone while they are attending school. This includes students who are on a school trip. This regulation is designed to ensure that the learning of all students is maximised, while minimising any potential for distraction and cyber-bullying.

This approach means mobile phones either do not come with the student to school, or are switched off and in bags during the full school day. If a student does bring their mobile phone for emergency contact or health reasons, these must be switched off and kept in bags at all times. (Please note, this also includes smaller digital devices that perform similar functions, such as smart watches.)

We understand that some parents like their children to have a phone to communicate with them after school, mobile phones will be available for students to use after school hours, including pick up time. If a parent or caregiver needs to contact their child urgently during the day, they should call the office.

It is important to note that if students do make the decision to bring a phone to the school grounds, they do so at their own risk. The school and its staff are not responsible for any loss or damage caused to any phone.

If a student does bring their mobile phone for emergency contact or health reasons, these must be switched off and kept in bags at all times, unless directed by a teacher. Exemptions are approved by the principal.  

The Board of Trustees (BOT) will engage in school community consultation on the formalisation of our cellphone rules. This is a requirement of the Education and Training Act 2020. More information will be circulated after the first BOT meeting.

How we are handling breaches to the rules:

We encourage our students to uphold our ASPIRE values and to act responsibly with their devices. Breaches of the cellphone rules occur when using the cellphone in a way that goes against the ASPIRE values.

If a staff member observes a student with a mobile phone during school time, the student must hand it to the staff member immediately when asked. The phone will be kept in the office and can be collected by the student at the end of the day. If there is a repeated incident. A parent or caregiver will be required to pick up the phone from the office. It is at the discretion of the parent as how long it takes to pick up their child's phone. 

Health and emergency situations

In matters related to a student's immediate health and safety concerns, a parent or caregiver can apply at any time to the principal for a period of exemption (e.g., medical conditions or protection issues).