Tory MPs Engrossed in Phones While Pupils Asked to Put Them Away
Contradiction in Actions
On the same day Education Secretary Gillian Keegan emphasized the need for students to refrain from using mobile phones during school hours, Conservative MPs were observed glued to their devices in the House of Commons, showcasing a contradictory stance.
New Guidelines by Education Secretary
Keegan has instructed that children should not be allowed to use mobile phones throughout the school day, emphasizing the adverse effects of such devices on students’ focus. This directive extends to break times and lunch hours, aiming to create a conducive learning environment.
Disruption in Parliament
Despite the fresh guidelines, Tory Members of Parliament were spotted engrossed in their phones during sessions, raising questions about adherence to the proposed rules. The sight of MPs distracted by their devices during crucial discussions prompted contrasting reactions.
Implementation Challenges
The outlined plan includes various strategies for schools to enforce the no-phone policy, such as a complete ban within school premises or collecting phones at the beginning of the day. Additionally, teachers may opt for stringent measures like prohibiting any visibility or sound of phones under the “never used, seen or heard” approach.
Impact Assessment
While the government stresses the prevalence of unauthorized phone use among students, the Association of School and College Leaders doubts the efficacy of the new guidance. General Secretary Geoff Barton expressed skepticism about the guidelines significantly altering students’ behavior, citing the discrepancy in phone usage between school and non-school hours.
