When the bell rings to signal the start of term one at public schools across Victoria in 2020, students will be banned from using their mobile phones until the end of the school day.
Announced by Education Minister James Merlino, the ban is an effort to reduce distractions in the classroom, as well as a means to reduce cyber bullying, with the view to improve education outcomes.
During school hours, students will be required to have their mobile devices switched off and stored in lockers until the end of the school day.
“This will remove a major distraction from our classrooms so that teachers can teach and students can learn in a more focused, positive and supported environment,” Mr Merino said in a statement.
“Half of all young people have experienced cyber bullying. By banning mobiles we can stop it at the school gate.”
There will however be exceptions to the ban for students who use their mobile devices to monitor health conditions. Teachers are also permitted to instruct students to bring their phones to class for particular activities if need be.
In the case that parents or guardians need to reach their child in an emergency, they can call the school directly.
READ: Greek Community of Melbourne launches children’s school holiday program