A NEW law should be brought in banning mobile phones in schools, according to the former head of Ofsted.
Sir Michael Wilshaw said the devices are distracting and disrupt lessons, arguing that children can use a school phone in an emergency.
He suggested that the UK should follow France’s lead and ban phones on school premises.
His comments come amid growing debate about the issue of phones in schools, with Culture Secretary Matt Hancock saying he admires head teachers who do not allow their use during the school day.
Asked about the issue at the Festival of Education at Wellington College, Berkshire, Sir Michael said that “any sensible head would ban mobile phones”.
“It’s far too distracting for children having mobile phones. Texting, sexting, all this takes place.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here