Dear Parent and Carers
As you may be aware, on 9th June, 2026, Councillors at Education, Children and Families Committee agreed a ‘bell to bell’ ban of mobile ‘phones in all Edinburgh secondary schools, with lockable pouches to be introduced. This decision was made following a citywide consultation and engagement with groups including Secondary School pupils, Head Teachers and Unions.
With schools breaking for the Summer later this week, we are sharing an update on what this decision means for your young person when they return to school in August.
It was agreed at Committee that mobile ‘phone restrictions would be introduced from August and that full school day restrictions, and the use of lockable pouches, will be the same in all Edinburgh secondary schools. Restrictions will apply to all devices including smart watches. There is not an option to deviate from the decision that has been made.
Work is currently underway to procure lockable pouches for all secondary schools. Due to timings, there will be a phased implementation of pouches across Edinburgh secondary schools. We will confirm closer to the start of the new school term when your child will receive their lockable pouch. The ban will be in place in August but, as the procurement of the pouches may take additional time; they may not be immediately available in August. I should like to reassure you that every effort will be made to obtain them as soon as possible.
Separately, guidance is being prepared setting out how exemptions will work for young people who do require access to their device during the school day, whether for health needs or because they have caring responsibilities. Please rest assured that this will be handled sensitively.
I want to take this opportunity to reassure you that we will be putting support in place for all young people as we go through this period of change, and particularly for those young people who may find these restrictions more challenging.
A further update will be issued ahead of young people returning to school in August.
With kind regards
Roberta Porter
Head Teacher