Phone Ban / Phone Pouches

Dear parent / guardian

I am writing in advance of next year to give you time to prepare for upcoming changes to student phone access during the school day.

As you may have heard, the Department of Education and Youth has instructed all post-primary schools to restrict student access to mobile phones for the full duration of the school day, including break times. The rationale for this change is to improve student wellbeing and safety, while also reducing distractions from learning.

From the beginning of the 2026/27 school year, unapproved phone use will be prohibited in our school. All students will be required to store their phones in a locked phone pouch for the full duration of the school day, including break times. The pouch may only be opened at the end of the school day or when a student signs out early.

The school has prepared a detailed Phone Pouch Policy, which is available on our website at the following link:

https://stkevinscollege.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Mobile-Phone-Policy-2026-Ratified-Feb-9th-2026.pdf

We ask that you read this document carefully.

Please note the following important information:

• Students will be provided with a phone pouch free of charge by the school. The pouches are durable and are expected to last for the student’s time in school.
• If a pouch is lost or damaged and requires replacement, a charge of €20 will apply.
• All students must have their phones secured in their pouch for the entire school day. Students may not enter the school with an unpacked phone under any circumstances. Phones must be pouched before entering the school building.
• If you need to contact your son in an emergency, please contact the school office.
• Students who require access to a phone app for a diagnosed medical condition (for example, a diabetes management app) will be provided with an alternative pouch that allows the app to function as required.
• Senior students that use Revolut or similar phone based apps to pay for lunch outside the school will need to make alternative arrangements, for example using the physical Revolut card or cash, as phones will remain locked during the school day.

We appreciate your support and cooperation in implementing this important change.

Yours sincerely,

Eoghan Rooney –  St. Kevin’s College