The Department of Education does not permit student use of mobile phones in public schools unless for medical or teacher directed educational purpose.
It is important to note that it is not a requirement at Lakeland Senior High School for students to have a mobile phone at school.
Lakeland Senior High School recognises that an increasing number of parents/carers who for safety, security and/or emergency purposes wish to provide their children with mobile phones. This policy details the conditions under which mobile phones are permitted at Lakeland Senior High School.
Conditions of Use
- The use of mobile phones for all students is not permitted from the bell chimes at the beginning of the school day (8.50am) to the conclusion of the school day, unless under the instruction of a teacher or staff member. Mobile phones should be ‘off and away all day’.
- This policy applies to the use of student headphones, earbuds and other listening devices used in conjunction with a mobile phone, tablet device or music player.
- This policy is in effect for the whole school day, including break times.
Exemptions and Communication
Exemptions to this ban include where a student requires a mobile phone:
- to monitor a health condition as part of a school approved documented health care plan; or
- under the direct instruction of a teacher for educational purposes; or with permission of a teacher for a specified purpose.
- Smart watches must be in ‘aeroplane mode’ so phone calls and messages cannot be sent or received during the school day.
Lakeland Senior High School has duty of care for all students when they are attending the school. In emergencies, where students need to get in contact with parents/carers, students are to notify the appropriate school staff. If parents/carers need to contact their children, they are asked to contact the school directly.
Breaches of this Policy
- Breaches of this policy will be managed in accordance with the School Behaviour Management Policy and Procedures.
- Students who do not comply with this policy may have their mobile phone confiscated and held at LET administration. The student can collect the mobile phone at the end of the school day.
- In the case of repeated inappropriate mobile phone use by a student, their mobile phone will be confiscated and held at LET administration. The parent/carer will be informed and requested to collect the mobile phone from the school at their earliest convenience. The principal may direct the withdrawing of the student’s mobile phone from the school for a determined period or permanently.
- Further disciplinary action, in accordance with Lakeland Senior High School Student Behaviour Policy and Procedures may be a result of repeated breaches and or depending on the circumstances of the breach.
Further Guidance
For the purposes of this policy, ‘mobile phones’ includes smart watches and associated listening accessories, such as, but not limited to, headphones and ear buds.