From Monday, June 29, 2026, all schools in England are legally required to ban smartphones under a new rule introduced by the Labour Party government as part of its online safety push. The measure makes individual schools and trusts legally responsible for ensuring phone-free environments throughout the school day.
Government Statement on Legal Force
The government said the move would give "legal force to what schools are already doing in practice." Labour Party Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson wrote to head teachers to encourage them to follow guidance stating that "all schools should be smartphone-free environments by default."
Headteachers, or staff they authorise, now have a statutory power to enforce the ban, and according to the BBC, they are "legally required" to comply with the change. The Department for Education (DfE) reiterated that the move would provide legal backing to existing practices.
Support from Ofsted and Political Figures
In new guidance, Ofsted confirmed: "School leaders have Ofsted’s full backing to ban mobile phones. We know many of you have already begun to go down this path. I hope the updated guidance gives you even greater confidence to do what you think is right for your pupils and school community."
Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott welcomed the amendment, which is due to be tabled in the coming days, calling it "fantastic news for headteachers, parents and pupils across the country." She noted that Labour had previously dismissed the ban as "an unnecessary gimmick," but added: "I'm glad they've now listened, this is the right step for improving behaviour and raising attainment in our classrooms."
Funding Concerns from School Leaders
Pepe Di'Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, called for more funding to support bans beyond a "no see, no hear" approach, to help pay for items such as lockers, secure storage areas, or phone pouches. The government has not yet announced additional funding for these measures.
Legislative Details
Jacqui Smith told the House of Lords on Monday that the government would table an amendment to its landmark Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, "creating a clear legal requirement for schools" on the matter. The amendment is expected to be introduced in the coming days.
