The Welsh Government will bring in statutory guidance for schools on restricting mobile phone use during the school day, following a consultation which found widespread support for tighter rules.

A workforce survey showed that while most schools already have their own policies, there is no consistent approach across Wales. It found 82 per cent of respondents backed statutory restrictions, with many calling for clearer national direction.

The new guidance will set out expectations for local authorities and schools on how phones should be managed. It will be reviewed over the school year, with the option to strengthen the rules further if needed.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Welsh Language Anna Brychan said the move followed pressure for clearer national rules.

“Our 100-day plan was clear we would act and I have listened to the calls for stronger clarity on this issue. This is why the government will publish statutory guidance to provide clear national expectations on how mobile phones are used in schools,” she said.

“I want to be clear: as Cabinet Minister, I fully support – and strongly encourage – headteachers to introduce clear and robust restrictions on mobile phone use during the school day, up to and including a full restriction across the school site. I am mindful some children will always need exceptions for medical reasons for example. By consulting on guidance at the start of the school year I am giving schools the clarity they want quickly, and creating a safer learning environment by reducing distractions now.”

The announcement comes as the UK Government sets out plans for new restrictions on under-16s’ access to social media.

“We are committed to protecting young people online, and will carefully assess the implications of this announcement,” said Ms Brychan.

“We will work with school leaders and partners across the education system in Wales to ensure that their voices are heard and needs are reflected as new restrictions are taken forward.”

Alongside the phone guidance, the Education Minister also outlined wider priorities for the sector, including improving literacy and numeracy through a new plan due before the end of the summer, reviewing the curriculum, and reducing teacher workload.

Other priorities include expanding Welsh-medium education, improving opportunities for learners to use Welsh outside the classroom, and reviewing how universities are funded.

Ms Brychan added:“Education is the key to unleashing our nation's potential and there is no shortage of talent, energy and innovation in Wales. If we want to unlock this potential and build a stronger Wales, we need a stronger education system.

“We will raise standards, strengthen the Welsh language, develop skills and build a system that works. By working together, we can provide opportunity, ambition and excellence for all learners, in all parts of Wales and support the workforce that makes it possible. This Government has made education a priority because the future of Wales depends on it.”