At Rucstall Primary School, we are working alongside other local Basingstoke schools to take a consistent, community‑based approach to reducing smartphone use during the school years. By acting together, schools across the area are supporting healthy habits, wellbeing and positive social development for children.

Note: From September 2026, only brick phones (calls and texts, no internet access) will be permitted to be stored at school.

Our Approach

At Rucstall Primary School, we are committed to creating a calm, safe and focused learning environment. Reducing access to smartphones during the school day helps to:

• Support children’s wellbeing and emotional development
• Encourage real‑life friendships and positive social skills
• Reduce distractions from learning
• Minimise exposure to online risks at a young age

This approach applies at all times while children are on school premises, including school trips and residential visits.

What This Means for Pupils

• Smartphones are not permitted on school premises unless there is an agreed medical requirement.
• Internet‑linked devices, including smartwatches, are not allowed unless medically required.
• Year 5 and Year 6 pupils only may bring a brick phone if needed for travel to and from school. These must be handed to the class teacher on arrival.

If a Device Is Brought to School

• Any smartphone or internet‑enabled device found on site will be confiscated and returned to a parent or carer.
• Brick phones that are not handed in during the school day will also be confiscated.
• Repeated breaches will be managed in line with our Behaviour Policy.

Working Together with Families

We recognise that families make different choices about technology at home. By working together, we can help children:

• Stay present and engaged at school
• Develop independence and confidence
• Build healthy habits around technology

We encourage parents and carers to support this policy by ensuring children do not bring smartphones or smart devices to school.

Alternatives to Smartphones

Some families choose simple alternatives, such as basic phones or location devices, rather than smartphones. Further guidance on suitable options can be found on the below links.

Please note: Individual tracking or GPS devices are not permitted on school trips or off‑site visits, as this creates safeguarding risks.

Medical Exceptions

Any exceptions due to medical grounds must be agreed in advance with the Headteacher.

Further Information and Support

• Online Safety & Smartphone Policy: https://www.rucstall.hants.sch.uk/policies/
• Smartphone Free Childhood: https://www.smartphonefreechildhood.org/

If you have any questions or would like further guidance, please contact the school office. We appreciate your continued support in helping us create a safe, supportive and focused learning environment for all pupils.