Mobile phones, digital devices and social media platforms have all become an integral part of our daily lives and young people have struggled to manage the appropriate use of their devices. This week we revised our Responsible Phone Use Procedure so that it aligns with the new legislation regarding Phone Bans in Schools, but more importantly to teach our students the appropriate time to use their phones and the impact that it can have on their social skills.  Many schools have opted to use lock boxes or pouches that disable students’ phones at school. However, at Magdalene we have opted to work with our students and asked them to ensure that their phones are away and out of sight, thus teaching them the importance of self discipline and responsibility. 

It is pleasing to report that the students have been supportive of this new procedure and we are starting to see the benefits.  As a result, students are more focused in the classroom and talking to each other rather than communicating through social media. 

The College is also grateful for family support in ensuring that students meet this expectation.  Should your child have their phone confiscated you will receive communication via compass simply stating that the phone/AirPods were confiscated.  Please discuss this with your child, as after the third confiscation parents/carers will be required to collect the phone from the College office.   If you have any questions about the procedure or would like to ask for clarification from the teacher who confiscated the phone, please contact the office and you will be directed to the appropriate staff member.