Nicholas Jolly, Director of Academics / Deputy Head of Senior School

Dear Parents and Caregivers

You may have come across discussions in the media about recent changes in mobile phone regulations within NSW public schools. Commencing this term, a new policy will prohibit the use of mobile phones during class hours, recess, and lunchtime at all NSW public secondary schools. While we recognise the potential negative effects of excessive screen time on young individuals, we operate within the challenges of an era where the typical age for a young person to receive a phone is 13. From our experience, nearly all students have permission to bring their phones to school.

Regarding our policies on device use at Cranbrook, we are adopting a different stance. We understand that mobile devices can serve as powerful tools for learning. Here are some examples of instances where students are permitted to use phones in the classroom:

• Stopwatch, camera, and video camera during Science experiments.

• Camera and video camera in Design and Technology classes.

• Camera for gathering inspiration in Visual Arts.

• Video camera for choreography in Drama classes.

• Compass and camera for Geography fieldwork.

• Audio recorder for speeches in English and other humanities classes.

• Camera for capturing whiteboard content in any class.

Any student using their phones in class without explicit permission will have their device confiscated, to be collected at the end of the school day. For recess and lunch periods, we generally discourage the use of mobile phones and laptops. Students will receive a warning for inappropriate usage, and repeated violations will result in the confiscation of the device for collection at the end of the day.

We’ve chosen this approach for several reasons;

• A complete ban on phones can sometimes lead to resistance and defiance among students.

• We aim to prevent students from hiding in bathrooms or taking excessive restroom breaks to use their phones.

• Empowering students to make responsible choices is more likely to cultivate their cooperation and respect for the rules, fostering a sense of trust and mutual respect between teachers and students.

• When students have the choice, they must think critically, considering the pros and cons to make informed decisions. This teaches them self-discipline and self-regulation. Allowing students to make such choices in a controlled environment prepares them for responsible technology use as adults.

• Teaching responsible phone use, rather than banning it, equips students with the skills to use technology wisely as a tool rather than a distraction.

Regarding cyberbullying, we consistently manage incidents of misbehaviour, and all forms of bullying are treated with the utmost seriousness at Cranbrook. Our well-being program is designed to educate students about various topics, including anti-bullying, aiming to empower them to be inclusive individuals with healthy relationships.

We will continually monitor our policy pertaining to mobile phones. We greatly appreciate your support for our approach. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Nicholas Jolly
Director of Academics / Deputy Head of Senior School