Bremen prohibits smartphones in schools up to tenth grade

Out of Tikok, Instagram and other apps – at least in school. Cell phones are banned in the city of Bremen at primary schools and secondary schools up to the 10th grade from June 1st. This was announced by the educational authority. The regional magazine “Buten un inland” had previously reported on the planned ban.

After intensive discussions with school management, pediatricians and educational experts, the educational authority decided on the ban, wrote the spokeswoman for the educational department. The decision is based on scientific knowledge, which demonstrates the negative effects of smartphone use during school day on learning, social development and health of children. The mobile phone ban in schools is an important step to protect the children’s well -being.

“Private cell phones are not necessary in everyday school life, on the contrary, they distract from learning and keep students from interacting during breaks and, above all, moving,” said Bremen’s senator for children and education, Sascha Karolin Aulepp (SPD). “The schools make an important contribution here to convey healthy habits and regulate the usage behavior of cell phones.”

“The decree of the city of Bremen applies from June 1st. The cell phones must remain off in their pockets,” said the spokeswoman for the educational department. The staff in the schools will check this. There should be exceptions, for example if a cell phone is necessary for medical reasons. So far, different rules for the use of smartphones have been in the schools in the city of Bremen. “With this ban we create a clear framework,” said the educational senator.

Of course, making children fit for the digital world remains an important task of the schools. However, no private cell phones are necessary because the Bremen schools are well equipped. “The school iPads are managed centrally and are protected by children and youth protection filters,” it said.