Wakefield pupils to have phones locked away in pouches as new school rules come into force
The school is strengthening its phone-free policy
Pupils at a Wakefield school will keep their smartphones in secure, lockable pouches throughout the school day under new rules starting next week.
The academy has introduced the system through a partnership with Yondr as it seeks a more consistent approach to enforcing its existing phone-free policy.
The devices will be placed in specially designed Yondr pouches when pupils arrive and unlocked at the end of the day. Pupils will retain possession of their phones rather than handing them to members of staff.
The changes will come into effect on Monday, October 5.
Cara Ackroyd, executive principal at Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT), said the changes reflected the latest Department for Education guidance.
“Our schools have always been phone-free environments, but in line with the latest Department for Education guidance, we are strengthening our approach,” she said.
“We wanted a clear, consistent solution that works seamlessly across our whole school community, for staff, pupils, and parents alike.”
The academy said securing phones for the duration of the day would help pupils focus on lessons, interact face-to-face and become more involved in wider school life. It is also expected to reduce the time staff spend addressing mobile phone use.
Ms Ackroyd said the pouch system would provide a practical way to support the academy’s expectations.
“Our aim remains simple: to maintain a focused environment where pupils can participate fully in lessons, build stronger relationships with those around them, and stay safe,” she said.
“By removing digital distractions during the school day, we are giving pupils the space to be present, engage deeply, and thrive, while allowing our teachers to focus on teaching.”
Once the pouches have been unlocked at the end of the school day, pupils will be able to use their phones after leaving the academy.
Yondr says more than three million pupils worldwide currently use its system, which has been adopted by schools across the UK, Europe and the United States.