In an effort to combat excessive mobile phone use among students, All Saints Catholic College in London has extended its school day by five hours. Pupils will now attend classes from 7am to 7pm, as part of a new initiative aimed at reducing screen time and promoting alternative activities.
Headteacher Andrew O’Neil believes that the extended school day will help break the cycle of phone addiction that has become prevalent among young people. He emphasizes the importance of providing students with engaging activities during the evening hours to encourage a more balanced and fulfilling childhood.
The school has already implemented a comprehensive ban on mobile phones, with students facing the potential loss of their devices for five days if they are caught using them. This move aligns with the government’s recent guidance instructing schools to prohibit mobile phones in classrooms to minimize distractions and enhance educational outcomes.
The initiative at All Saints Catholic College serves as a proactive measure to address the growing concerns surrounding mobile phone addiction and its detrimental effects on students’ well-being and academic performance. The school aims to foster a positive and healthy learning environment where students can thrive without excessive reliance on electronic devices.
