A ban on phones in public schools appears to be paying early dividends, with students increasingly focused and learning more, the education minister says.

Jason Clare – who spearheaded the ban at the beginning of 2024 – pointed to a NSW survey of almost 1000 school principals, which showed 87 per cent of students are less distracted in the classroom and 81 per cent experienced improved learning.

Separate research in South Australia found a 63 per cent drop in critical incidents involving social media and 54 per cent fewer behavioural issues.

“Teachers tell me these bans are making a world of difference … there are less distractions in the classroom and playgrounds are noisy again,” Mr Clare said.

“This is helping teachers and parents and supporting happier, healthier children.”

Quizzed on safety implications of the ban, and how parents could contact their phoneless children in case of an emergency, he said there were plenty of ways to do that.

“The best thing to do is to pick up the phone and ring the school,” Mr Clare said.

“There’s usually special conditions for children that have special needs as well, so schools are adopting a really common sense approach here to make sure that kids are focused in the classroom. But mums and dads can get in contact with their kids if they need to.”

A Cancer Council study also found the number of people between 14 and 17 vaping was declining, which the government put down to its ban on the sale of vapes at tobacconists and convenience stores.

Suspensions at SA schools relating to vaping have dropped by 50 per cent, the study said.

The laws, which took affect from October 2024, mean vapes can only be purchased at pharmacists. Flavours are restricted to mint, menthol and tobacco, banning more child-friendly blends such as bubblegum and cola ice.

 

Alex Mitchell
(Australian Associated Press)