The government has introduced statutory guidance that means that from the start of Autumn term 2026 all schools will have to implement a policy that prohibits the use of mobile phones in schools, throughout the school day, including during lessons, the time between lessons, breaktimes and lunchtime.
You can read more details on the government’s website.
However, there is a section which covers adaptations and reasonable adjustments. This includes the following advice:
“While schools are expected to prohibit the use of mobile phones throughout the school day to reduce distraction and disruption, they must comply with their other legal duties such as the duty to make reasonable adjustments where necessary. There may be other exceptional circumstances where schools should consider making adaptations to their policy for specific pupils. This guidance does not provide an exhaustive list of exceptional circumstances, and schools should assess each case on its own merits.
Schools have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to take such steps as is reasonable to avoid substantial disadvantage to a disabled pupil caused by the school’s policies or practices. Allowing a disabled pupil access to their mobile phone during the school day, where it is necessary due to the nature of their disability, may be considered a reasonable adjustment and a failure to do so may be a breach of the school’s duty.”
for full details, please visit the government’s website.