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Jess Brown-Fuller is Focused on Phone-Free Schools for Chichester
- Mar 12
- 2 min read
Jess Brown-Fuller MP recently visited Chichester High School, as it hosted leaders from 14 schools across Sussex and Hampshire to see the benefits of a phone-free learning environment in action. The visit has followed widespread support for curtailing mobile phone use in schools, with Jess raising the issue directly to the government in the House.
Since October, Chichester High has introduced lockable pouches from Yondr, becoming the first school in the city to adopt the system. Students keep their phones stored in the pouches throughout the school day, unlocking them only when lessons finish. The approach helps remove distractions during lessons and encourages pupils to focus on learning and interact more with classmates and teachers.
Jess has been vocal in supporting the adoption of lockable pouches and pushed for further government support, stating this week in Parliament:
“Their use has reduced the pull of the addictive features on phones, and teachers report that children are just being children at break times rather than being glued to their phones. I am glad that the Minister shares my ambition to see every school become phone free, but what support are the government going to provide for schools that have really tight budget restrictions to enable them to achieve this?”
The change at Chichester High School has already had a noticeable impact. Staff report improvements in behaviour and concentration, while students say they are talking more with friends at break times and finding it easier to stay focused in lessons.
During the visit, school leaders from across the region heard directly from students and staff about how the system works in practice and how a phone-free approach can be implemented successfully in schools.
Speaking after the event, Jess praised the leadership shown by the school and the willingness of students to share their experiences:
“Thank you to the staff and students of Chichester High School who highlighted the benefits of a phone-free school to other school leaders”
“I regularly hear from families across Chichester who are seeing the negative impact smartphones and social media are having on young people’s wellbeing. That’s why I am pleased the Liberal Democrats are championing a harms-based approach which would protect young people from the inappropriate content they are currently subjected to.”
For Jess, the visit has underlined how practical steps taken by schools can help create a healthier balance between technology and learning. She hopes the example set in Chichester will encourage more schools to explore ways of reducing distractions and supporting young people’s wellbeing in the classroom.
