Singapore Expands School Phone Restrictions to Cover Entire Secondary School Day

Singapore has expanded its restrictions on mobile phone use in secondary schools, requiring students to keep their devices stored throughout the entire school day. The updated rules cover not only classroom lessons but also recess, co-curricular activities (CCAs) and supplementary lessons.

Under the new approach, students are expected to keep their mobile phones inside their bags or in designated lockers during school hours. Smartwatches are also included in the restrictions because of their ability to receive messages and notifications, which can distract students from learning and school activities.

The move reflects Singapore’s growing focus on creating a more attentive and less digitally distracted school environment. While mobile phones can provide useful communication and access to information, schools are increasingly concerned about excessive screen time, notifications and messaging affecting students’ concentration and interaction with peers.