Supporting our students

Students' Use of Mobile Phones in School Policy

From the beginning of Term 4, 2023, students in NSW public schools will be unable to use mobile phones at school under the Students’ Use of Mobile Phones in Schools policy. This policy is being implemented by the NSW Government to increase focus and learning in classrooms, remove distractions and promote positive social interactions. 

Cecil Hills High School is implementing this policy through an ‘Off and out of sight’ strategy.  From the beginning of Term 4, students will need to:

• Turn off their phone before entering the school;
• Place their phone in their bag;
• Ensure they do not access their phone until they leave the school at the end of the day.

Students will not be able to access their phone once they arrive at school, in class or during recess, 5-minute break and lunch.

If a student is observed accessing or using a phone, on the first occasion it will be:

• Confiscated and stored securely at the office. The phone will be returned to the student at the end of the day and parents will be informed.

If there is a second infringement of the policy, the phone will be:

• Confiscated and stored securely at the office. A parent will be required to collect the phone at the end of the day.

We know this is a change for students and we appreciate parents working in partnership with the school to support this state-wide policy. Please support your child by discussing the policy with them and reminding them of their responsibility to follow it.

Some common questions from students and parents have been:

How will students pay at the Canteen, office and uniform shop?

Students will need to bring a card or cash.

Will there be any exemptions?

Parents of a student with a  medical or learning need may apply for an exemption. Supporting documentation will be requiresd as part of the process.

What if a parent needs to urgently contact their child or the child to contact their parent?

Emergency contact can be made by the school office.

Are any other devices banned from use during school hours?

Mobile phones are banned, plus devices that pair to the phone and require it to be on -  such as smart watches and airpods.

How will students know the details of the "Off and Out of Sight" policy?

The policy and requirements are being communicated to students at school via Connect meetings and lessons.

Please contact the school if you have any questions about the Students' Use of Mobile Phones in Schools policy.  Further information and reminders will be communicated prior to the beginning of Term 4.

Julia Cremin

Acting Principal