Parents can have a say on Wales school phone restrictions

Parents and pupils can help shape proposed school-day phone restrictions in Wales, including whether and how children could keep phones for their journeys and request an exemption. The Welsh Government consultation opened on 9 September and closes on 2 December 2026. It has not introduced an immediate nationwide ban.

What would change at school?

The draft would set a national expectation that schools restrict phone use, while leaving each school to choose its arrangements. Options include leaving phones at home, handing them in on arrival, using lockable pouches or lockers, or keeping them out of use and silent. Older pupils could be allowed to use phones in designated places or at agreed times.

Handing phones in would let pupils use them before and after school. But the draft identifies secure storage, staff time and loss or damage as practical concerns. Pouches and lockers also carry costs and logistical questions; schools would need to involve families and pupils in developing their policies.

Who could need an exception?

Medical requirements, disability, additional learning needs, young-carer responsibilities and the needs of looked-after children are among the reasons listed. A phone used to monitor diabetes is one example. The draft says schools should explain how to request an exemption, which could involve a parent’s application and supporting evidence where necessary.

The equality assessment acknowledges that restrictions could disadvantage disabled learners who rely on phones for communication, accessibility or medical monitoring. Exemptions or alternative arrangements would need to reflect individual needs.

What happens next?

The government aims to reduce distraction and improve wellbeing, but its draft says evidence on wider attainment and mental-health outcomes is less consistent. Those benefits are aims, not established results of this proposal.

Guidance is planned for publication in early 2027. The integrated impact assessment refers separately to full implementation from September 2027, subject to the consultation. Parents, carers, pupils and staff can respond online through the Welsh Government consultation page.