Classrooms across Moray are about to get a little quieter as mobile phones are set to be banned from August 2025.
The decision follows a major consultation which heard from over 3,000 voices, including pupils, parents, carers and school staff.
A clear majority backed the change, with 73 percent of responses in favour of limiting phone use during the school day.
In primary schools, mobile phones and personal devices will not be allowed at all unless needed for medical reasons.
In secondary schools, pupils will need to keep phones switched off and out of sight from the first bell to the last, with a few agreed exceptions.
The new guidance has been shaped by a working group made up of head teachers, teachers, parent council reps, union members and council officers.
It follows national advice from the Scottish Government and aims to create calmer classrooms and more focused learning.
There is growing concern that mobile phones, while useful in some contexts, are increasingly pulling attention away from lessons and affecting wellbeing.
Councillor Kathleen Robertson, who chairs Moray Council’s Education, Communities and Leisure Services Committee, said the time felt right to take action.
We know phones are part of everyday life and can support learning in the right setting.
But we also know they come with risks, from distraction to bullying.
We want our schools to be places where young people can concentrate, connect face to face and feel safe.
The survey results tell a strong story.
Among parents and carers, 1,659 backed the new policy while just 353 were against.
Staff were even more united, with 402 in favour and 87 opposed.
Pupil views were more mixed, with 334 supporting the move and 448 against.
Open comments revealed a range of opinions, from strong support to concern about how the ban would be managed fairly.
Many called for flexibility around break times or the school commute, while others stressed the importance of clear rules and thoughtful enforcement.
There was also strong agreement that pupils with health needs must still be supported and that alternative tools should be available when needed.
Schools will now create local policies shaped by their own values and relationships, making sure the new guidance is introduced with care and clarity.
More information will be shared with families and staff ahead of the new school year.
A full review will take place after the first year, giving everyone a chance to reflect and refine what works best.
