PUPILS at Prestatyn High School will have to hand their mobile phones in at the beginning of each lesson from the start of the next academic year.

Parents and guardians were sent a letter from Pam Hill, the school’s assistant headteacher, which outlined the change, but stressed that “we are not banning mobile devices”.

The 2024-25 academic year will begin at Prestatyn High School will begin on Wednesday, September 4.

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Extracts from the letter read: “In September, we will be asking all pupils to place their mobile phone into a secure designated holder at the start of each lesson.

“We are not banning mobile devices, but we want all pupils to focus on learning whilst in lessons.

“It is important that all learners are responsive, respectful and comply with our expectations, so that we can get on with what matters most - educating our young people.

“Successful education starts with the basics, and that means all pupils and parents supporting our expectations.”

During PE classes, pupils’ phones must remain in the school changing room, or handed in to the PE office.

Pupils should only use their mobile phones and headphones during break and lunchtimes, the school has said.

In a separate letter to parents and carers last week, headteacher Neil Foley wrote: “As I am sure you all agree, educational attainment and progress must be our top priority.

“This is a simple solution to a difficult issue, allowing us to avoid banning these devices completely - a decision that some schools have taken.”

Mrs Hill added in her letter that a failure from pupils to adhere to “simple rules” such as these will lead to sanctions.

Her letter also stressed the importance of correct uniform and punctuality, meanwhile.

She added: “As we prepare for the new academic year, we will insist on all of our learners complying with these expectations.”

The 2023-24 academic year at Prestatyn High School concludes tomorrow (July 18).