A new policy restricting mobile phone usage has been implemented across Edinburgh schools, even though the specialized magnetic pouches intended to secure the devices remain unavailable. Pupils returning from the summer break are currently required to keep phones powered off and stored out of sight during the day.
While secondary students were previously promised lockable pouches, City of Edinburgh Council officials confirmed these will not arrive until next month due to ongoing testing. Primary students will continue to store their devices in cabinets. Council education spokesperson James Dalgleish noted that the distribution of pouches will occur in stages throughout September and October, with full coverage expected by the October break. The restrictions also extend to smartwatches.
The council allocated £400,000 for this initiative following successful trials at Portobello and Queensferry high schools. Despite the delay, campaign leader Andy Williamson expressed that while the procurement failure was disappointing, the long-term shift toward reduced screen time remains a positive goal for students. This move aligns with broader Scottish government guidance encouraging schools to eliminate classroom distractions caused by mobile devices.
