In September 2025, Ernulf Academy proudly became one of just a small number of phone free schools across the country.
Making the decision to become phone free was not easily made, we understand that phones for young people have become an important part of their lives, a tool for safety and independence and a way to stay in communication with friends and family.
But we want to remind people that school is not the right environment for mobile phones. That scholars do not need them in order to support their education whilst at school.
Evidence shows that mobile phones can be damaging to a child’s development, because;
- They can be highly addictive
- Expose children to harmful content
- Reduce attention and encourage distraction
- Reduce time that young people should spend exploring, interaction, and developing social skills
- Are linked to mental health problems
- Discourage young people from taking part in physical activity
It is for these reasons, that we introduced Hush pouches. Each scholar places their phone into their own Hush pouch every morning when entering the academy and it is unlocked at the end of the school day with an unlocking system. This means that students keep their phones on them but now have the opportunity and environment for safe and disruption-free learning.
Phones not in a Hush pouch are classed as a prohibited item in school. Students found with a phone will be sanctions in line with out Behaviour policy.
If you have any questions about the use of Hush pouches or about Ernulf Academy being a phone-free school, please reach out to vice Principal of Behaviour and Safeguarding – melissa.girt@asteaernulf.org