Dear Parents/Carers, 

I am pleased to share that our Cross-Country runners have arrived safely in the Algarve, where they are enjoying the perfect weather for running!  Congratulations to our Year 10 MVP cohort, who graduated at St George’s Hall this week. I would also like to commend our Year 7 students, whose exemplary behaviour was praised during their visit to the Philharmonic Hall. 

Thank you for your responses to our recent ‘Mobile Phone Use’ questionnaire. In summary: 

• 56% of parents/carers support a stricter policy where mobile phones are not used at any time during the College day. 

• 94% agree that students should learn to self-regulate their mobile phone use as an important life skill. 

In response to the question, “What do you believe is the most appropriate approach to mobile phone use in school?” 

• 36%: Allowed at break and lunchtime only 

• 39%: Allowed for educational use when directed by a teacher 

• 25%: Not allowed at any time during the College day 

Mobile phone use remains an ongoing area of consideration, regularly discussed with staff, students, and partner schools within our CMAT. Whilst we recognise the benefits of mobile phone use such as supporting coursework, communication via Teams, and homework monitoring through Satchel, we are equally mindful of maintaining a healthy balance. 

Although our internal monitoring indicates that the vast majority of students, in Years 7–11, engage in enrichment activities or sport at lunchtime, and the no-phone policy in dining areas continues to be highly effective, with excellent student compliance, our current policy is likely to be updated in the very near future to align with the most recent DfE guidance. We will keep you informed throughout and welcome any questions or feedback. 

Have a wonderful weekend, 

Mrs Cubbin