Mobile Phones & Smartwatches

Purpose

Over the past decade, smartphones have silently reshaped the landscape of adolescence. What once seemed like a tool for convenience and connection has gradually become a source of anxiety, distraction, and disconnection — not only from learning but also from one another.

At Concordia, we believe it is our duty to act early and decisively. That is why, starting in September 2025, we will enforce a ban on smartphones across the school. This decision is not made in isolation. Around the world, educators, researchers, and policymakers are responding to growing concerns about screen dependency and digital harm.

While we recognise that each family may have its own approach to managing children's exposure to digital devices, this decision reflects our collective commitment to students' well-being.

Key Statistics on Digital Use and Cyberbullying

• 67% of children aged 8 to 10 have social media accounts, even though these platforms are officially restricted to those aged 13+. The number of children on social networks has more than doubled in just two years.
• 20% of families report having already faced a case of cyberbullying, and one in four young people say they have witnessed it. Among them, 6% admit to having been perpetrators, sometimes without realising it. (source: e-Enfance)
• 60% of young adults (aged 18–25) say they have already been victims of cyberbullying, with significant impacts on mental health (insomnia, addictions, suicidal thoughts). (e-Enfance & Caisse d'Épargne)
• 82% of minors have been exposed to online pornography, posing a major psychological risk. (source: e-Enfance)
• 61% of children have already been confronted with violent content online, compared with 39% just a few years ago. (IFOP study, e-Enfance)

Consequences for Wellbeing & Learning

The consequences are alarming for both wellbeing and learning. Children who overuse digital devices or suffer cyberbullying frequently show anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and addictive behaviours.

But the damage does not stop there: as educators, we see how it leads to loss of concentration, declining academic results, weakened resilience, and isolation from peers. Exposure to violent or sexual content at an early age further risks desensitisation and distorted social development, undermining both confidence and healthy growth.

Scope

This policy applies to all children at school. We count on every parent to act together, as it will be the success of this policy.

What is Banned at School

• Smartphones — must remain in school bags, switched off, throughout the school day
• Smartwatches (Apple Watch, Garmin connected, etc.) — connected devices are not permitted
• Connected earphones (AirPods and similar)
• Any other internet-connected device unless authorised for educational purposes

Children are encouraged to bring a basic, non-connected watch if they wish to keep track of time.

Communication with Parents

If a child needs to contact home during the school day, they can do so via the school office. Parents can reach their child at any time through the school administration.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

• First breach: oral warning. The device is confiscated for the day and returned at the end of school.
• Repeated breach: confiscation for the week. Meeting with parents required to return the device.
• Persistent breach: meeting with the Head of School and disciplinary action.