Western Sydney Catholic Schools hold the phone

Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Chief Executive Officer Jack de Groot feels that consistent restrictions with clear parameters are necessary to support both students and staff.

“Though the majority of our schools already have a phones-off-and-away approach, it’s important to make clear that this is the right approach for all our students,” Jack said. “Of course, there is a place for mobile phones in our lives, but that’s not at school.”

Parent representative George Giovas agrees that school is not the place for mobile phones.

”It is important to have a consistent, proactive and collaborative approach to the issue of mobile phones,” George said.

The safety and wellbeing of all our children and teachers during school is paramount. This is something that needs to be understood, respected and adhered to.

With the social media ban for children and young people under 16 coming into effect in December, the move to restrict phone use feels particularly timely. It also provides an opportunity to encourage students to prioritise real-world interactions and build social skills accordingly. School staff will receive support in implementing this policy throughout the school day, including guidance on appropriate consequences for breaches.

Of course, a small number of carefully considered exceptions to these rules will be allowed. For example, some students with diabetes use mobile phone apps to monitor their blood sugar levels and require access to a phone for safety reasons. Digital literacy will continue to be valued, but the ban certainly supports boundary-setting and perspective.

The Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Student Use of Mobile Phones and other Digital Devices at School Policy is available here

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

Facebook

12 Aug 2026
From Facebook
This morning, we gathered as a school community to celebrate Mass and the Rite of Baptism. Congratulations to the students from our school and their siblings, who received the Sacrament of Baptism today. We feel truly blessed to have shared in the special and joyful occasion with you. May God continue to guide and bless each of you as you grow in faith, hope and love. We also extend our sincere thanks to Father Andrew for leading this special mass and for guiding our school community in faith with such warmth and care. A heartfelt thank you to Dr Nicholas Ng for leading our choir and to all the students who sang so beautifully, helping to make this celebration even more meaningful.

08 Aug 2026
From Facebook
Today we celebrated our wonderful Principal, Mrs Yager, on World Principal Day! We would like to thank Mrs Yager for her incredible dedication, positivity and the care and love she brings to our school each day. We are so lucky to have you Mrs Yager 🌸 Thank you for all that you do for us 💕