Please note this page may be subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact info@mountbatten.school

Mobile Phone Policy Update – Smartphone-Free from September 2026

From September 2026, The Mountbatten School will become a smartphone-free site. This change follows updated national guidance, growing research around the impact of early smartphone use on young people’s mental health and wellbeing, and a shared commitment across the Romsey Partnership of schools to create a focused, safe and supportive learning environment.

Our three key reasons for this are:

• Safeguarding concerns
• Mental Health concerns
• Distraction from learning

From this date, students will only be permitted to bring one of three approved non-smart mobile phones. These devices do not have internet access, social media apps or cameras, helping to reduce distractions and safeguard students during the school day.

We are committed to working closely with families to prepare students for this transition and to promote healthy digital habits. By working together as a school community, we can ensure our young people learn and grow in an environment free from the pressures and distractions that smartphones can bring.

The Department for Education guidance can be found here.

Mobile Phones

We have identified three suitable models that will be accepted at school. We’ve included links for convenience, but you’re not required to buy from these suppliers.
^{External links are provided for convenience; we’re not responsible for the content, availability, pricing, or security of third-party websites.}

Mobile Phone Plans

If you don’t already have a SIM plan, you may wish to explore SIM-only options. You can view suitable options here:

• Parent Shield

• Compare SIM offers

Banking without a smartphone

Please note these are school recommendations only, shared to support the transition to a Smartphone-Free Childhood and based on our experience and ease of use. You’re not required to choose these accounts, and you’re not limited to these banks—these are simply options we’ve found work well.
^{This information is not financial, legal or regulatory advice. Please do your own research and check each provider’s latest terms, fees, eligibility criteria and privacy information before signing up. The school accepts no liability for decisions made using this information and is not responsible for any third‑party products, services or linked content.}

Watches & Trackers

Smartwatches will not be permitted in school. This change supports our wider approach to reducing distractions and maintaining a focused learning environment throughout the school day.

Students may wear analogue or standard digital watches that provide timekeeping functions only. Devices with smart capabilities, including internet access, messaging, cameras or app functionality, will not be allowed.

For students who require alarms or reminders during the day, simple digital watches with alarm functions are permitted. These provide the necessary support without the additional features found in smartwatches.

By maintaining clear and consistent expectations around wearable technology, we can help ensure that the school environment remains focused on learning and free from unnecessary digital distractions.

Vibratime - Silent Digital Vibrating Alarm Watch

We recognise that some parents may have concerns about specific needs, such as knowing their child's location for safety. If you feel you need to monitor your child’s location, we can support the use of dedicated Bluetooth tracking devices if needed for peace of mind such as;

• Apple Air Tag
• Galaxy Smart Tag (Samsung)
• Pebblebee (3rd party - works across Android and IOS)

 

Bus Passes

From September Mountbatten students will be provided with a physical bus pass via school.

**Wednesday 9th September Update - Bluestar Bus**

https://www.bluestarbus.co.uk/school-bus-passes

 

Resource Hub

Below are some links to a variety of resources you may find helpful, including videos, research, and websites exploring the impact of smartphones and social media.

Videos / Documentary

• Molly vs The Machines - Channel4 Documentary

• The Social Dilemma - Netflix

Studies

• Sapien Labs Study

Websites

• Smartphone Free Childhood

• Papaya