The City of Edinburgh Council has initiated a formal consultation process to consider expanding a mobile phone restriction scheme to all educational institutions across the capital. This move follows a pilot programme already in operation at two secondary schools, which has reportedly yielded positive outcomes.
Pilot Scheme Success Prompts Wider Review
Portobello High School and Queensferry High School have been utilising lockable pouches to securely store pupils' mobile devices throughout the school day. The trial has generated broadly favourable feedback, prompting education officials to explore a citywide rollout.
Consultation Seeks Input from School Communities
The consultation, which opened following a report presented to the council's Education Committee, will actively seek the views of parents, pupils, and education staff until March. This participatory approach aims to address any concerns before implementing wider changes.
Councillor James Dalgleish, the education, children and families convener, emphasised the importance of thorough engagement. "We want these new measures to be brought in as soon as is practical, but it is the right thing to do to make sure that citywide consultation with families and communities takes place," he stated.
Proposed Implementation Strategy
Councillors have been presented with several options for enforcing the restrictions. The preferred model involves deploying lockable pouches in all secondary schools, while primary schools would utilise lockable cabinets to store devices.
A previous decision by the Education, Children and Families Committee agreed in principle to restrict mobile phone use in primary schools. An ongoing integrated impact assessment will determine the practical details of this policy.
Balancing Benefits with Individual Needs
While there is reported broad support for keeping smartphones out of classrooms, the council acknowledges the necessity to accommodate pupils with specific medical conditions or caring responsibilities who may require phone access. The consultation and impact assessment will specifically explore these nuanced requirements.
"I understand that there is broad support for keeping smartphones out of the classroom, however there are individuals who have concerns, which makes it even more important that as a council we get this change right," added Councillor Dalgleish.
National Context and Next Steps
The Scottish Government issued national guidance on mobile phones in schools in August 2024, but individual schools and local authorities retain discretion over their specific policies. Edinburgh's proposed citywide approach represents a significant step towards standardisation.
Officials are now examining logistical and financial aspects, including the procurement of pouches and cabinets. Councillor Dalgleish confirmed he is "working closely with officers to move this forward as quickly as we can, while also making sure that we have done our due diligence." The goal is to ensure the restrictions deliver the intended positive impact on the learning environment across Edinburgh's schools.
