MOBILE PHONES and PERSONAL AUDIO DEVICES (PAD)

The increased ownership of mobile phones requires the school to have rules to ensure that mobile phones are used responsibly by students. Our classroom rules state that mobile phones must be switched off and left in student bags during and between lessons.

This rule was designed to ensure that all students could concentrate on their learning without any interruptions while at the same time ensuring the benefits that mobile phones provide (such as increased safety) can continue to be enjoyed by our students.

The school accepts that parents give their children mobile phones to protect them from everyday risks involving personal security and safety. There is also increasing concern about children travelling alone on public transport or commuting long distances to school. It is acknowledged that providing a child with a mobile phone gives parents reassurance that they can speak with their child as quickly as possible.

Acceptable Uses

• Mobile phones must be switched off and left in bags during and between lessons.
• Parents are reminded that in cases of emergency, the school should be contacted (9634 4199). The office staff will ensure your child is reached as quickly as possible and will assist in any appropriate way.

Unacceptable Uses

• Mobile phones should not be used to make calls, send SMS messages, surf the internet, audio record, take photographs / videos or any other application during and between lessons.
• Mobile phones should not disrupt classroom lessons by ringing, beeping or vibrating.
• Mobile phones may not be used to audio record, video or photograph any person at school without their prior consent.

Consequences

• Students leave their phones turned on and not in their school bags will have their phones confiscated by their classroom teacher and handed in to one of the Deputy Principals. Phones can be collected at the end of the school day. If a student repeatedly uses their phone inappropriately, the phone will be confiscated and parents will be contacted by the Deputy Principal.

Theft or Damage

• Mobile phones that are found in the school and whose owner cannot be located should be handed in to one of the Deputy Principals.
• The school accepts no responsibility for replacing lost, stolen or damaged mobile phones.
• The school accepts no responsibility for students who lose or have their mobile phones stolen while travelling to and from school.

Inappropriate Conduct

• Students with mobile phones may not engage in personal attacks, harass another person, or post private information about another person using SMS messages, taking/sending photographs or objectionable images and phone calls. Student using mobile phones to bully other students will face disciplinary actions as outlined in the School's Discipline Policy.