From January 2026, secondary school students in Singapore will face stricter rules on smartphone and smartwatch use during school hours. 

This change expands on existing guidelines and reflects growing concern about screen time distractions and their impact on learning, focus, and student wellbeing.

What the Phone Ban Means

Source: MOE

Starting in 2026, the Ministry of Education has introduced updated guidelines requiring secondary school students to keep smartphones and smartwatches stored away throughout the entire school day, not only during lessons.

Under the new policy, mobile devices must be kept in school bags, lockers, or designated storage areas during school hours. 

This includes lesson time, recess, co curricular activities, supplementary lessons, enrichment programmes, and other school based activities. Exceptions may be allowed in specific circumstances such as medical needs or urgent communication, subject to the school’s discretion.

Previously, phone use was mainly restricted during lessons. The revised policy extends the restriction across the full school day, with the aim of encouraging healthier digital habits and reducing dependence on mobile devices.

Why the Phone Ban Was Introduced

The phone ban was introduced to promote healthier screen use and to improve student focus during the school day. Excessive screen time has been linked to reduced attention span, increased fatigue, and poorer learning outcomes.

By limiting phone access in school, students are encouraged to be more present in lessons, engage more meaningfully with peers, and participate actively in school activities. Parents are also encouraged to reinforce balanced digital habits at home and to help students develop self regulation in their technology use.

What Students and Parents Should Expect

Changes to Daily Routines

Students will need to adjust to being without their phones during the school day, including during recess and CCAs. Parents may need to rely more on school administrative channels rather than direct messaging for urgent communication during school hours.

Adjustment Period for Students

Some students may initially feel uncomfortable without constant access to their phones, while others may find the reduced distraction helpful. 

Practical Preparation Tips

Parents can support their children by helping them plan communication in advance, such as arranging pick up times beforehand. Students can also be encouraged to use free time productively by reading, revising, or interacting with friends face to face.