education
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education
Lesson in listening
St Swithun ’ s is solving the smartphone conundrum with positivity , resilience and secure pouches
Children ’ s use of smartphones is a big topic of conversation . With many pupils turning up at secondary school with smartphones , both parents and teachers are concerned about their impact on children ’ s development . They can be a distraction in the classroom , creating problems with concentration and listening , as well as affecting pupils ’ social skills and self-esteem .
St Swithun ’ s , one of the country ’ s leading independent schools for girls , has a solution : Yondr Pouches . Graham Yates , deputy head pastoral , explains that these allow students to keep their phones on them – but the phones are switched off and locked into a pouch . They can only be released at one of several stations across the school premises , which are themselves locked during the day . This is simple yet effective , and far less disruptive for both students and staff than handing in and returning smartphones during school hours .
Jane Gandee , headmistress , comments : “ The pouches are a message about sensible use . Not having access to the smartphones signals that there are other things that are more important : to smile at a person , to spend part of your day engaged with real people , and to be aware of your surroundings .
“ We are not saying smartphones are bad . We recognise such technology is an asset as well , helping with communication , and giving students autonomy and independence . However , we have removed the distraction , allowing pupils to be immersed in their academic subjects .”
Since their introduction at the beginning of the academic year , the pouches have been accepted by students as part of their routine , with a few commenting that they have helped them develop a better relationship with their phone . At lunchtime girls regularly attend talks as part of the school ’ s academic enrichment programme as well as myriad clubs , and are seen chatting to each other in the canteen .
Jane continues , “ We want to be a school where people interact with each other . It is a very friendly school – and this aspect is often commented upon .”
Encouraging pupils to notice others and have a concern for society are values that are supported by the school ’ s Positive Education Programme . This award-winning , in-house course focuses on feeling good , doing good and functioning well , helping students flourish within the school and beyond . The programme includes developing emotional regulation and resilience , qualities that pupils can also apply to their relationships with their smartphones – for example challenging negative thinking when they are exposed to unrealistic body images on social media , or using critical skills to deal with issues such as fake news .
Considering others includes pupils thanking the school ’ s unsung heroes such as cleaners and gardeners . However , the headteacher herself received thanks from one pupil – for inspiring them to be strong independent young women who believe in themselves .
www . stswithuns . com
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