From September 2025, children are not permitted to bring smartphones or wear smart wearable devices to school.

Why This Change?

At Christ Church New Malden, we are committed to fostering an environment where children can focus on learning, build real-world relationships, and develop healthy habits. Smartphones and smartwatches can be distracting, can impact social development, and raise safeguarding concerns. By removing these devices from school, we aim to:

• Support children’s concentration and wellbeing
• Minimise opportunities for inappropriate content or communication
• Promote face-to-face friendships and inclusive play

We believe this change supports our vision of becoming the people that God made us to be.

Simple Phones for Independent Travel

We understand that some parents may wish their child to have a mobile phone for safety reasons while walking to or from school unaccompanied. In these cases, children may bring a simple phone to school.

What is a Simple Phone?

A simple phone, also known as a feature phone, is a device used primarily for calling and texting. It does not allow the installation of third-party apps, even though some models may have basic internet or multimedia functions.

School Guidelines for Simple Phones

• Phones must be switched off and kept in the child’s school bag at all times while on school premises, including in the playground.
• Any phone seen or used during school hours will be confiscated.
• Smartphones are not allowed under any circumstance.

Permission Required

If your child walks to or from school unaccompanied and you wish them to carry a simple phone, please complete the school’s Simple Phone Permission Form.

Thank you for supporting us in keeping our school environment focused on learning, connection and wellbeing.