Knutsford Academy is introducing a phone-free school system from September 2026, designed to support a calm, focused and safe learning environment for all students. This initiative follows national guidance from the Department for Education and is underpinned by extensive research showing that reducing mobile phone use in schools can improve academic focus, behaviour, safeguarding and student wellbeing. The decision has also been shaped by a comprehensive consultation process with parents and carers, which received overwhelmingly positive support and valuable feedback to refine the approach.
At the heart of the system is a secure phone pouch programme. Each student will be issued with a personally assigned pouch and, on arrival at school, will switch off their mobile phone (along with smartwatches and earbuds) and secure it inside the pouch under staff supervision. Students will keep the pouch with them throughout the school day, ensuring their device remains safe but inaccessible. At the end of the day, unlocking stations located near school exits will allow students to independently open their pouch and regain access to their phone as they leave the site. Students are responsible for bringing their pouch to school each day and maintaining it appropriately.
This system is already used successfully in thousands of schools worldwide and has been shown to create more positive learning environments. At Knutsford Academy, it will support improved engagement in lessons, reduce distractions, and promote healthier social interaction among students. Sixth Form students will follow a slightly different approach: while they will not use pouches, mobile phones must remain switched off and out of sight within the main school building, with access limited to designated sixth form areas. Overall, the phone-free system represents a significant step in reinforcing the school’s commitment to high standards of behaviour, wellbeing and academic success.
