Devon County Council backs proposal for smartphone ban in schools from 2026

A countywide ban on smartphones in schools has moved a step closer after Devon County Council overwhelmingly backed the principle at its Full Council meeting last Thursday (4 September).

The proposal, put forward by Councillor Graham Bell, calls for restrictions on phone use during the school day from September 2026. 

The aim is to reduce digital distractions and protect the wellbeing of nearly 40,000 pupils in Devon schools.

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Councillors raised concerns that smartphones are contributing to issues such as bullying, sleep disruption and anxiety. 

The Council will now support the ‘Smartphone Free Childhood’ campaign and carry out a consultation with schools, parents and pupils before the start of the spring term. 

Cllr Bell said the motion was about “putting children’s wellbeing first” and argued that teachers should not have to manage the negative influence of online platforms.

“Teachers are teachers, they are not referees of TikTok, nor shields against the dangerous misogyny of internet influencers” he told the meeting.

He added that a ban would be “achievable, cost effective, Ofsted-approved and improve educational outcomes.”

Cllr Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council and cabinet member for education, also welcomed the proposal. “I’m very pleased that the County Council is taking a lead on smartphones and the damage they can do to our young people. It’s right that we do this, and this is the first step in understanding the dangers of smartphones.”

While the Council cannot impose a legal ban, it will work with all schools, including academies and independents, to encourage policies that support safe and focused learning environments.