Mobile Phone Pouches
From September, Priestlands School will introduce Yondr phone pouches for all students.
The Yondr system enables students to keep their mobile phone with them throughout the school day while ensuring it is securely locked away during school hours. This approach is used successfully in schools across the UK and internationally to create calm, focused learning environments.
Why are we introducing Yondr?
Our aim is to create the best possible environment for learning and wellbeing.
By reducing access to mobile phones during the school day, we hope to:
- improve students' focus and engagement in lessons
- encourage positive face-to-face interactions and friendships
- reduce distractions and interruptions to learning
- support students' mental wellbeing by reducing the pressures associated with constant phone use
- help students develop healthy digital habits
How does the Yondr pouch work?
Each student will receive their own personal Yondr pouch on their first day back in September.
Students place their switched-off phone into the pouch when they arrive at school. The pouch remains locked throughout the school day, but students keep it with them at all times.
At the end of the school day, students unlock their pouch using one of the school's unlocking stations before leaving site.
The pouch is then taken home and brought back to school each day as part of students' essential equipment.
To see how the system works, please watch this short video:
Is Priestlands banning mobile phones?
No.
Students are still able to bring a mobile phone to school if they wish. The difference is that phones will be stored securely in a Yondr pouch throughout the school day.
We recognise that mobile technology is an important part of modern life and believe schools have an important role in helping young people learn how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.
How will students learn about online safety?
Online safety and responsible technology use remain an important part of our curriculum.
Students will continue to learn about digital wellbeing, online safety and responsible use of technology, helping them develop the skills they need to navigate the digital world with confidence.
What can parents do to support?
Parents and carers play an important role in helping young people develop healthy relationships with technology.
We encourage families to:
- agree clear expectations around phone use at home
- regularly discuss online safety and digital wellbeing
- monitor and review their child's online activity where appropriate
- encourage regular breaks from screens and opportunities for offline activities.
Working together helps ensure young people are safe online while developing positive lifelong digital habits.
We appreciate the support of our parents and carers as we introduce this new approach.
Together, we can create a calm and focused learning environment while helping our young people build healthy, safe and responsible relationships with technology.