From the Head of Senior School

From the Head of Senior School

Mobile Phone and Devices at School

You will have read Principal Lisa Moloney’s article last week about the Social Media Delay and our school response. We are committed to creating a focused and respectful learning environment for all students. To support this, we are extending our expectations around mobile phone use at school to include all students, including our Year 11 and Year 12 students. Our Director of eLearning, Marianna Carlino, has developed a virtual pinboard with important information to assist you. Please click here to access the information.

What’s Changing?

  • No phones visible at school for all students – All phones must remain out of sight during the school day. If a phone is seen, it will be confiscated for the day, and an Accountability Point will be issued.
  • Year 12 Common Room access – Year 12 students may check their phones only in the Common Room during times deemed appropriate by the Head of Year.
  • Cafe payments – Students in Years 6 to Year 12 may not use phones or devices at the cafe.
  • Headphones – Headphones and loop earplugs may only be worn with a Headphone Pass, issued in consultation with the Learning Enhancement Department. Year 11 and 12 students may use headphones during study periods only.

Why This Matters: Wellbeing and Academic Success

Limiting distractions by restricting phone use at school leads to improved focus and better learning outcomes, as students are able to engage more deeply with their lessons and retain information more effectively. Without the presence of phones, students are encouraged to interact face-to-face, which helps them build stronger friendships and develop essential communication skills. Research also indicates that reduced screen time throughout the school day can lower stress and anxiety, ultimately supporting students’ overall wellbeing. A survey by the NSW Education Department found that 95% of principals are in favour of phone bans, with 87% noting fewer distractions among students and 86% reporting improved socialising.

FAQ for Parents

  • What if my child needs to contact me during the day?

Students can speak to staff at the Studies Office if they need to make an urgent call. Likewise, parents can contact the Studies Office or Reception and messages will be passed on promptly. If students are feeling unwell, they should present at the Wellbeing Centre and our Nurses will call home.

  • Can students bring their phones to school?

Yes, with parental permission, acknowledging that many students attend extensive co-curricular activities beyond school hours and need contact with their parents. Phones must remain securely in lockers throughout the day.

  • What happens if a phone is seen?

The phone will be confiscated, and Accountability Points will be issued in line with our Senior School Behaviour Management Guidelines. Students may also be asked to hand in their phones each day to the Head of Year.

  • How will students pay at the cafe?

Student cards or a physical debit card will be the only accepted payment methods. Please ensure your child’s card is topped up before school. If she has misplaced the card, this can be replaced by seeing staff at the Studies Office.

Thank you for your support as we work together to maintain a productive and respectful school environment.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School