“Schools will only then need to decide how to implement and enforce a ban across their school community and the Government must provide any support they require to do so effectively,” he said.
“Some schools will need time to communicate with parents and pupils on implementation of a complete ban where this is not already in place.”
Skills minister Baroness Smith of Malvern told the Lords on Monday: “We’ve listened to concerns about how we support headteachers in delivering on this policy and we have listened to Parliament.”
In a statement, Laura Trott shadow Education Secretary said: “I am delighted we have forced Labour to see sense and U-turn. This is fantastic news for headteachers, parents and pupils across the country.
“This is the right step for improving behaviour and raising attainment in our classrooms.”
Liberal Democrat schools spokesperson Caroline Voaden said the government “must ensure all schools have the necessary support and funding to manage this transition”.
In a statement, she added: “If schools decide to introduce pouches or lockers, the government should ensure they are resourced to do so.”
Reform UK’s Education Spokesman Suella Braverman MP said: “The current guidance simply does not go far enough. A clear, enforceable ban to protect children is the right thing to do, for standards, parents, teachers and for the future of our children.”
A Green Party spokesperson said they are “deeply concerned about the potential harms caused to children and young people by smartphone usage and social media.”
A statement went on to say a “thorough consultation process with parents, teachers, and young people themselves, is key to creating effective solutions to the problems associated with mobile phone use in schools.”
