A Minns Labor Government will restrict the use of mobile phones in NSW public high school classrooms to improve students’ learning and social development.
NSW Labor 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 replicate similar initiatives used in South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia, which restrict the use of mobile phones, smart watches, tablets and headphones, unless students are under the instruction of a staff member.
Education outcomes in NSW have been declining over the past decade, with NSW now ranked 23rd in reading, 31st in maths and 23rd in science compared to other countries in the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) rankings.
In 2006, NSW was effectively ranked 6th in reading, 9th in maths and 3rd in science.
Labor’s announcement is based on evidence from schools such as Davidson High School, and follows consultation with parents and organisations like the Heads Up Alliance and the Centre for Digital Wellbeing, who have been advocating the benefits of this initiative.
Currently, students from kindergarten to Year 6 are not permitted to have mobile phones in their possession during the school day.
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:
“As a parent of three children myself, I’m worried about the impact of phones and devices on our 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.
“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.”
CHRIS MINNS MP
NSW LABOR LEADER
