Smartphone Device Delay

This decision follows both extensive research and strong community feedback.

In surveys conducted in May:

• 77% of parents supported a smartphone delay
• 94% expressed concern (moderate to high, or at least some concern) about the impact of smartphones
• 464 families responded, with strong participation across all relevant year groups

Boys themselves also told us:

• they recognise the need for rules around technology
• they value phone-free time, especially with family

This alignment between research, parent insight and student voice gives us confidence that this is the right step for our boys.

At its core, this is about:

Supporting boys to develop focus, strong relationships and healthy habits before introducing the full complexity of smartphones.

We know that the later primary and early secondary years are critical for:

• attention and learning
• friendship formation
• independence and resilience

Delaying smartphones helps protect this stage of development.

We recognise this was the most commonly raised concern in the parent survey.

In response:

• students may use non-smart ‘talk-text’ phones for calls and messages
• families can still maintain contact for changes to arrangements
• existing supervision and routines remain in place

This approach balances connection and safety, without exposing students to the risks of smartphones too early.

Some parents expressed concern about this, and it is understandable.

However, when expectations are shared across a school community:

• social interaction shifts toward in-person connection
• boys spend more time together in real activities (sport, play, shared experiences)
• pressure linked to social media is reduced

Importantly, research and experience suggest that friendship quality improves, rather than diminishes.

Students were thoughtful and realistic.

They told us:

• they don’t always like rules, but know they need them
• they strongly value phone-free time at home, particularly at the dinner table

This tells us that boys themselves recognise both the benefits and challenges of technology.

No.

This is about timing and balance, not rejection.

Students will continue to use:

• school-managed devices for learning
• technology in structured, purposeful ways

The focus is simply on delaying personal, unrestricted smartphone use during key developmental years.

Three things have converged:

• Clear and growing research evidence
• Strong parent concern and support
• Student acknowledgement of the need for boundaries

Taken together, these create a compelling case not just to discuss the issue, but to act.

Yes. Increasingly, schools in Australia and internationally are:

• delaying smartphone access
• strengthening device-free expectations
• prioritising play, independence and focused learning

This is part of a broader shift in how we think about childhood in a digital age.

This is most effective when approached as a shared commitment.

Families can support by:

• reinforcing device-free times (meals, bedtime)
• keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight
• encouraging real-world activity and friendships
• aligning with other families where possible

The survey results show that many families are already thinking this way.

Over time, we expect to see:

• improved focus and classroom engagement
• stronger friendships built face-to-face
• healthier sleep habits
• reduced social pressure and distraction

In short: boys who are more present, more engaged and better prepared for the challenges of adolescence.

The School is confident because:

• the research base is strong and growing
• the majority of parents are supportive
• students themselves recognise the need for boundaries

This is not a speculative step—it is a considered response to clear evidence and community voice.

Medical needs are fully supported. Any approved device is there to support health, not general use.

The School recognises that some students require smart or connected devices for legitimate medical purposes, for example:

• glucose monitoring systems
• insulin pumps linked to mobile apps
• other health-monitoring technologies