Mobile Phones, Devices and Wearable Technologies
Catholic Education Tasmania joins a growing number of educational sectors nationally and schools worldwide managing the use of mobile phones and wearable technology.
From the start of term one 2025, students will have access to distraction free classrooms and the freedom to relax during break times.
The implementation of a systemwide Mobile Phones, Devices and Wearable Technologies Policy means that mobile phones, student owned mobile devices such as tablets, and wearable technology such as smartwatches will need to be stored whilst students are at school including during break times.
We understand that phones and wearable technologies are a part of our students’ lives and influence how they learn, communicate, and play.
Through implementing this policy, our goal is to provide the best learning environments for students: environments where their learning outcomes, social and emotional development, and health and safety are prioritised. During breaks students will be able to take time to relax and recharge free from their devices.
Each school will develop a Protocol to provide information for staff, students, and families about how they will manage the use of devices and wearable technologies. Please contact your school for more information.
If you need to contact your child during school hours, please call the school office. Students can also visit the office if they need to contact you.
We appreciate your ongoing support as we work to provide the best learning environments for our students.
FAQs
Who does the policy apply to?
The Mobile Phones, Devices and Wearable Technologies Policy will apply to all students within Catholic Education Tasmania.
When does the policy start?
The policy starts from Term One 2025.
Why has the policy been developed?
The policy has been developed to support students to have the best learning outcomes. By putting phones and devices away, students can concentrate on their learning.
A number of Catholic Education Tasmania schools already have similar policies in place. Introducing a policy across all schools will ensure all our students have the best opportunity to learn.
How do I contact my child in an emergency?
Please call the school office if you need to contact your child. Your child can also visit the office if they need to contact you.
Can I get an exemption?
You can apply for an exemption for your child through the School Principal. Please contact your school for the exemption form.
What happens if the phone gets lost or damaged whilst it is in storage?
Schools will make every effort to ensure the safety of devices however will not be responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of student devices.
How will my child learn to use technology responsibly?
The eSafety website has a range of information designed to help parents and carers talk to their children about staying safe online. There are also resources that children and young people can access to support them online.
www.esafety.gov.au/communities/cultural-linguistic/translations
www.esafety.gov.au/communities/living-with-disability/easy-read