Published Date: Sep 22nd, 2026
Pupils, parents, carers and school staff are being invited to have their say on proposals to limit the use of personal smart devices in Fife schools.
The consultation, which is now open and runs until 3 November 2026, gives school communities the opportunity to help shape a future Fife-wide approach to the use of smartphones, smart watches and other personal smart devices during the school day.
The consultation follows a report to Fife Council's Education Scrutiny Committee which outlined work undertaken to explore the potential for phone-free schools across Fife and recommended wider engagement with learners and families before any decisions are made.
Fife Council's Education Directorate is seeking views on three possible approaches:
- In-class restrictions – personal smart devices switched off and out of sight during lessons, with controlled access possible at break and lunch times.
- Bell-to-bell restrictions – personal smart devices switched off and out of use throughout the entire school day, including intervals and lunch breaks.
- No personal smart devices in school – devices not brought into school except where an agreed exemption applies.
The consultation has been informed by research, Scottish Government guidance, engagement with school leaders and professional associations, and a review of approaches being used by other local authorities.
Evidence reviewed by the council highlights concerns around distraction from learning, classroom disruption, cyberbullying, online harms, inappropriate recording and sharing of content, privacy issues and the pressure on young people to remain constantly connected during the school day.
The report also notes that Fife's Transforming Learning programme has significantly changed the digital learning landscape, with learners from P6 to S6 now having access to council-managed iPads for educational purposes. This means pupils no longer need to rely on personal smartphones as a primary tool for learning, teaching and assessment in school.
Councillor Cara Hilton, Fife Council’s Education Spokesperson, said: "Our schools have worked hard over a number of years to manage the increasing challenges associated with personal smart devices, while continuing to harness the benefits of digital technology for learning.
"We know there is growing interest locally and nationally in how schools can support wellbeing, improve concentration in class and encourage positive relationships by reducing distractions from personal devices during the school day.
"Before any decisions are made, we want to hear directly from the people most affected. This consultation gives learners, parents, carers and staff the opportunity to share their views on the different approaches being considered and the practical arrangements that would be needed to make them work effectively.
"It is important that any future approach is proportionate, inclusive and reflects the needs of our school communities.
“I would encourage everyone to take part and help shape the next steps for Fife."
Initial engagement undertaken by the Education Directorate found strong support for reducing the use of personal smartphones during the school day to improve learning, minimise distractions and address issues such as bullying and filming of pupils and staff.
Respondents also expressed a preference for a clear and consistent approach across all Fife schools, alongside meaningful engagement with parents, carers and learners.
The council is keen to hear views not only on the three options but also on the practical arrangements, support measures and exemptions that would be needed to ensure any future policy is fair, proportionate and inclusive.
Any future approach would include exemptions for learners who need access for medical reasons, additional support needs, or other agreed exceptional circumstances.
No decisions have yet been taken on a preferred model. Following the consultation, a further report will be presented to councillors setting out the findings, impact considerations and recommendations for a future Fife-wide approach.
Schools will continue to operate their existing arrangements for managing mobile phones and other smart devices while the consultation is under way.
Information on how to take part in the consultation will be available through schools, and the survey link for parents and carers is available via:
https://haveyoursay.fife.gov.uk/education/towards-a-smart-phone-device-free-school-parent
