Child Safeguarding

Smart Devices 

Smart watches and phones are becoming increasingly common among learners and can be a useful way for families to stay connected before and after school hours. At SME, smart watches are permitted; however, to support a calm and focused learning environment, all smart watches must be placed on flight mode, or a mode that prevents calls and messages from being made or received, between 8:45am and 3:05pm. Phones are to be kept in bags and turned off from 8:45am until 3:05PM. During the school day, learners are encouraged to fully engage in their learning and social interactions without digital interruptions and limiting communication features helps minimise distractions and supports consistent classroom routines.  

This expectation is also connected to our commitment to child safety and safeguarding. Schools have a responsibility to provide a safe, supervised environment where communication with students occurs through appropriate and monitored channels. Restricting smart device communication during school hours helps ensure staff can appropriately support learner wellbeing, reduces the risk of unsupervised contact, and protects learner privacy. If a child needs to contact home during the day, staff will assist them through the school office, and families are encouraged to contact the office if they need to pass on urgent messages.  

If a learner is found using a smart device during the school day, the item will be confiscated and locked in the school office area until a parent/carer is able to collect it. We appreciate families working in partnership with us to support practices that prioritise student safety, wellbeing, and learning. 

Liz Chapman 

Deputy Principal: Community Wellness