The NSW Government has announced restrictions on the use of mobile phones in NSW high schools beginning in Term 4, 2023.
SSC Balmain Campus will be making changes to the way mobile phones are accessed by students during the school day. The new system is being implemented to increase focus in classrooms, remove distractions and to also promote positive social interaction, while reducing the potential for online bullying.
Important changes coming in Term 4
The new mobile devices management plan at Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus will apply to mobile phones and will occur during all school hours, including break times such as during lunch and recess, as well as while students are on school-based excursions.
Students will still be able to carry their phones while travelling to and from school.
School staff can allow students to use their mobile phones in specific circumstances, such as for an educational purpose, for their wellbeing or to support students with specific needs.
Parents/Carers and students wishing to apply for an exemption will need to apply for an exemption from the principal. They will need to fill out a written application to the Principal..
How we will restrict mobile phone access
After careful consideration with our key stakeholders including the students, Parents and Carers, and staff and executive teams, we have decided to proceed by using the option of Mobile Phones being turned off and kept out of sight, to reduce the distractions of students in the classroom.
What does this mean?
Students will need to turn off their phones as they come in the school gate and put them away in their bags. The phones will remain off and away in their bags until they leave the school grounds at the end of the day. This ban will include recess and lunchtime, sport and excursions.
We are excited to make our school a mobile phone-free space to improve learning and engagement, however, we will always make sure you can contact your child in an emergency. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school directly on 9801 0471. There will also be further information posted on school communication platforms.
