As private schools move to restrict student phone access ahead of the government’s social media ban for under-16s, Sydney parent George Giovas said tougher limits are essential to protect children and teachers.
Cranbrook is among several schools banning primary students from owning smartphones from next year, requiring devices such as the Nokia 2660 Flip instead.
Other schools introducing or expanding restrictions include Pymble Ladies’ College, Queenwood, and Frensham, while 80 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Parramatta will prohibit phones entirely for primary students from 2026.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Giovas, whose children attend Santa Sophia Catholic College, said he bought them smartphones only for managing after-school sport travel but believes school hours should remain phone-free.
“There’s a place for telephones, but unfortunately, that’s not during school hours… we’ve got to protect our kids, as well as our teachers too,” he told the newspaper.
He endorsed the government’s social media ban but criticised the timing as it begins during summer holidays.
“I think the government has taken the easy road out here on the timing… school’s finished, so schools aren’t going to feel the impact of it. Mum and Dad are going to feel the impact,” he said.
Giovas added he would prefer children use simple devices with no large screens or apps: “If I had the choice, I would say, get one of those simple little flip phones… all you can do is make a phone call. That’s perfect.”
Source: Sydney Morning Herald.
