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

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02 Mar 2026
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Today some of our students proudly represented St Anthony’s at the Zone Swimming Carnival, demonstrating great sportsmanship, determination and team spirit throughout the day. A special congratulations to Sophie Lo for her fantastic effort in the pool, placing 4th in backstroke — an amazing achievement! 👏🏊‍♀️ We are so proud of all our students for giving their best and representing our school with pride. 💙

02 Mar 2026
From Facebook
On Friday 20th February Year 6 were blessed to attend a faith formation concert and prayer experience with other schools in our diocese. We learned how we are all made in God's image and are called to make waves to make our world a better place. To top it off we got to reflect, pray, sing, dance and even meet the inspiring Gen Bryant!