Trust leaders have praised the success of a "bold step" in banning mobile phones at two local schools.

Kenilworth Multi Academy Trust (KMAT) says it has been "far from a punishment" for youngsters at Kenilworth School and Westwood Academy to not be allowed on their phones during the school day, saying it has given students "freedom to focus, connect, and thrive".

The phone-free policy launched at Kenilworth School this term, following on the back of the success of the same scheme at Westwood last year.

KMAT says the move has helped relieve the reliance on devices and social media for social interactions and reduced the impact of anxiety, comparison and peer pressure.

Nick Mummery Head of School at Kenilworth said: "Several different groups of students have said that they have appreciated not being able to use their phones as they need a break from them and they feel under less peer pressure. 

"In addition to the school attainment benefits, this has benefitted students' mental health."

At Kenilworth School, the policy has been possible through the introduction of phone pouches that have been provided to students. 

Students must place their mobile phones in the designated pouches at the start of the school day, where they will be securely locked. 

Before students leave the school site, they unlock their pouches using devices that are placed in each classroom.

The ban was introduced first at Westwood Academy and then Kenilworth School (image via Nub News)

Hayden Abbott, CEO of the Kenilworth Multi Academy Trust added: "The ban on mobile phones in both schools is having a very positive impact in many ways. 

"It is giving our students a better school experience and improved environment for learning in which they can enjoy their education, free from the interruption or distraction of messages and posts on social media."

There have also been changes to phone use for sixth form pupils.

Students are now only allowed to use them in designated areas within the school site; with the risk of confiscation if they are found using them outside of these areas.

The trust says it has seen a "noticeable decrease" in the number of sanctions being given for students being found with their phones out during the school day.

"Thank you to our parents and carers for supporting this initiative," Mr Abbott added. 

"Together, we can make school a place where students are fully present - in every sense of the word."

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