What are the benefits of smartphone-free schools?

[.style-intro]Smartphone-free schools don't just benefit students, they transform whole school communities. From learning outcomes to wellbeing and behaviour, schools that go smartphone-free report real improvements that are felt in every corridor, classroom and conversation – and extend far beyond the school gates.[.style-intro]

They support better learning

Removing smartphones from the school environment has been shown to improve academic performance. Research indicates that children at smartphone-free schools achieve GCSE results one to two grades higher than those where phones are accessible. With fewer distractions, students focus better in class, engage more deeply with their learning and develop stronger critical thinking skills.

They improve student mental health

When smartphones are removed from the school day, students' mental health improves. Anxiety drops, social comparison decreases, and cyberbullying becomes less of an issue. Schools that have made the switch consistently report a noticeable boost in pupils' overall wellbeing and emotional resilience.

They improve behaviour and relationships

Teachers in our network say that when schools go smartphone-free, the shift in student behaviour is dramatic. Within weeks, there are fewer conflicts, more positive interactions, and a stronger sense of community. Without the constant pull of notifications and social media, students are more present with each other and more deeply engaged in school life — from learning, to sport, to breaktime chats.

They create safer spaces

Removing smartphones significantly reduces safeguarding risks. From exposure to harmful content to covert filming or peer-to-peer bullying, going smartphone-free gives schools greater control and students greater protection. Teachers can focus on teaching, not policing the use of highly addictive devices

They help retain great teachers

Smartphone-free classrooms are calmer, more focused, and less stressful for staff. With fewer disruptions and better student engagement, teachers can do what they do best – teach. Schools that take this step often report better staff morale, higher retention rates and a more positive working environment overall.

They protect childhood

When phones are out of the picture, students rediscover the joy of real-world connection. They play more, talk more, and form deeper friendships. Schools that go smartphone-free often see a boost in socialising and face-to-face interaction – helping young people develop the social and emotional skills that matter most.

They help shift cultural norms

Perhaps the most powerful impact of all: smartphone-free schools help shift the cultural norms around smartphones and childhood. When schools take the lead, it sends a strong, unified message to families and communities that children deserve time, space and freedom from constant digital intrusion. That collective stance gives parents the confidence to delay smartphones and set firmer boundaries at home.

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Where schools lead, parents follow – and culture starts to change. Over time, the dominance of smartphones in childhood begins to recede, making room for deeper connection, better learning, and healthier development. It's a small change with huge ripple effects.