Phone Free School
Following extensive research and consultation, we are excited to announce that Abbeywood Community School will be implementing a mobile phone-free policy for students in Years 7 to 11 from January 2026. This will be facilitated through the use of Yondr lockable pouches, a system already adopted by many local schools with positive results. This change will apply to all current students in Years 7 to 11, from January 2026.
We believe this initiative will significantly reduce mobile phone dependency, particularly among students who are heavily engaged with social media. Our aim is to create a more focused, connected, and distraction-free learning environment. Sixth Form students will be exempt from this policy and may continue to use their mobile phones in the designated Sixth Form areas, such as the common room.
What This Means for You
To support this initiative, we are asking parents and carers to purchase a Yondr pouch at a one-time cost of £15. This pouch will be used throughout your child’s time at ACS. Alternatively, you can choose to ensure that your child does not bring a mobile phone into school. Students who do not have a pouch will not be permitted to bring a mobile phone onto the school premises. We understand that this cost may be a concern for some families. To ensure inclusivity, we will use Pupil Premium funding to subsidise the purchase of pouches for students eligible for Free School Meals, at a reduced rate of £10.
Financial assistance – will there be any help to pay for the pouch?
If families need additional financial assistance, a hardship application can be made using the form on the ACS website.
Learn More
Mr Poole, who is leading this initiative, has recorded a short video, available to view below, explaining the reasons behind this change and how the system will work at the beginning and end of the school day. We have also put together extensive FAQs. We are confident that this initiative will bring many positive benefits and will also support you in managing mobile phone use at home.
Thank you for your support.
/i/video/Phone_Free_Abbeywood_January_2026.mp4
Frequently Asked Questions
ACS Funding Application
acs funding application 2025 26 yondr docx.pdf
