Mobile phones
We are delighted and proud that Brannel School has been a ‘phone-free school’ since September 2023.
The negative impact of mobile phones and social media usage, on teenage children is well-documented and undeniable. Academic achievement, social interactions and mental health and wellbeing are all affected in a negative way.
We know from speaking to our learners that this decision had had an enormous positive impact on them.
How it works
Before making this decision, we explored many ways to achieve a phone-free environment at Brannel School and strongly believe that we are implementing the best solution.
When learners join our school they are given with a Yondr pouch. These phone-sized pouches have a strong magnetic lock which, once closed, cannot be opened again without a specially designed unlocking magnet.
Our non-negotiable expectation is that learners, upon arrival at school, switch their phones off and place them in their own Yondr pouch in their bag until the end of the day when they will have access to the unlocking devices before leaving.
The learners are always in possession of their mobile phones – there are no lockboxes to leave them in and they are not confiscated at the start of the day. We acknowledge that, as is the case in some other schools, routinely taking phones away from the learners is unnecessary and antagonistic and we believe this solution works for everyone.
There are obvious exceptions. Any learner with a confirmed medical diagnosis that requires them to have access to a phone (for example, diabetes) is issued with an exemption card which allows them to continue to use their phone throughout the school day.
Should you need to communicate with your child, or if they need to speak with you, our main reception can help, 01726 822485. This has always been our policy and continues to be now we have introduced Yondr.
Frequently Asked Questions – Yondr
What if I want to reach my child during the school day?
We want our learners to be engaged in their learning. Please refrain from contacting your child during the school day unless it is an emergency. Please contact Reception on 01726 822485 to reach your child. Staff will ensure messages are passed on to your child. If there is a need for your child to contact you in exceptional circumstances, staff will supervise unlocking the pouch or the main school phone line can be used.
What if there is an emergency?
In case of an emergency, we direct our learners to safety first. School staff will be able to unlock a Yondr case in a matter of seconds for learners once they are in a safe and secure location.
Will my child’s phone be safe?
Yes, because learners are in possession of their phone in the Yondr pouch and should keep the pouch stored away in their school bags.
What if the case gets damaged?
If a learner damages or loses their Yondr case, they will be required to submit their phone to Reception. The Yondr case is the property of Brannel School. Any damage to or loss of school property will result in a replacement charge of £15.00 paid via ParentPay. To request a replacement pouch please contact your child’s tutor.
How can I clean my child’s Yondr pouch?
Yondr pouches do not need regular cleaning. However, they can be washed in cold water for a short cycle and dried on a short cycle and/or air dried. Pouches can also be cleaned with a disinfectant cleaner.
What if I have more questions?
If you have any questions or queries about the use of Yondr pouches at Brannel School, please contact us:
01726 822485