It will also conduct a review into the impact of technology on children and young people and will develop digital media literacy programs with a focus on online ethical behaviours, data privacy and critical thinking skills.
The mobile phone policy would restrict the use of mobile phones, smart watches, tablets and headphones, unless students are under the instruction of a staff member.
Under the proposed policy, students from Years 7 to 12, would have their phones turned off during school hours and kept off and out of sight until the end of the school day.
There will be exemptions for students with special circumstances, such as needing to monitor a health condition, or when under the direct instruction of a teacher for educational purposes or with teacher permission for a specified purpose such as for language translation and communication.
NSW Labor Leader Chris Minns said that as a parent of three children, he’s worried about the impact of phones and devices on kids.
“Our kids are the first generation to be fully immersed in this technology, so we cannot be sure what the impacts will be on their young, developing minds,” he said.
“Limiting phone use in schools will help cut distractions, deal with cyberbullying and help students catch up academically.
“This will help teachers to teach and students to learn in a focused and supportive environment.”
Students from kindergarten to Year 6 are not permitted to have mobile phones in their possession during the school day.
School phone ban
MOBILE phones will be banned in NSW public high schools to improve students’ learning and reduce cyber bullying if Labor wins the State Election in March.