Letter to Parents and Carers: Mobile Phones in the Academy: Yondr

Dear Parents and Carers,

As you may be aware from recent news and media updates, the UK government has introduced guidelines regarding mobile phone usage in schools. While our academy has successfully operated as a 'phone-free' environment for some time, we are now updating our approach to ensure consistency and support student wellbeing.

Three academies within our Trust have successfully introduced Yondr pouches for students. Following their success, we plan to implement the Yondr pouch system at our school starting in January 2027.

Ahead of the launch, we will work closely with Yondr to share detailed information with students and families through assemblies, briefings, and online presentations.

We greatly appreciate your partnership and support as we work together to maintain a focused, distraction-free learning environment for our students.

Upon arrival at school, students will place their mobile phones (and any smartwatches) inside their assigned Yondr pouch and securely close it at designated points.

The locked pouch will remain in the student's possession, stored safely inside their school bag throughout the day. Students who arrive late will lock their pouch at reception under staff supervision.

Phones must remain locked and stored away at all times, including during lessons, transitions, break, and lunchtime.

At the end of the school day, students will unlock their pouches using the unlocking stations located at the school exits.

Students are responsible for bringing their assigned Yondr pouch to school every day in good condition. If a student forgets their pouch, their phone will be collected, safely stored and picked up by the student at the end of the day. Any intentional damage to a pouch or attempt to bypass the lock will be handled in accordance with our behaviour policy. If a pouch is damaged, lost, or repeatedly forgotten, a replacement pouch will be required at a cost, to families, of £15.

We understand that parents may occasionally need to contact their child during the school day. If an urgent message needs to be passed on, please contact main reception on 01226 717730, email enquiries@shafton.outwood.com, or reach out to your child's Learning Manager. A list of key contacts is available HERE. Should a student become unwell during the day, our standard procedures will apply and school staff will contact you directly.

Thank you for your continued support as we implement this change. We encourage you to discuss these updates with your child to help ensure a smooth transition toward a safe and engaging school community. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Yours faithfully,