Written question WQ95608

I recognise the impact technology and mobile phones can have on the health and wellbeing of children, young people. I hold regular meetings with the Welsh Local Government Association, Local Authorities and Headteachers, and this issue is often raised in those discussions. This was also one of the topics discussed at the Headteacher conference I held in November, and it was clear from those discussions that there are a broad range of views on this matter.

We believe schools are best placed to make any decisions on the use of mobile phones, reflecting on the way they use technology within a school setting and the needs of their learners. When setting their mobile phone and behaviour policies, we encourage schools to consider the effect mobiles could have on learning and pupil wellbeing.

We are also holding a behaviour summit in the Spring which will provide a further opportunity to discuss the use and impact of mobile phones.