Story perspectives

Edinburgh Council Weighs Citywide Mobile Phone Ban in Schools

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

The City of Edinburgh Council is considering a citywide initiative to restrict mobile phone use in schools.
The plan follows a successful pilot at Portobello and Queensferry high schools, with consultation through March.
The preferred option would use lockable pouches in secondary schools and cabinets in primary schools.
Councillor James Dalgleish said there is broad support and that community input and an impact assessment are needed to address concerns.

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Story summary

The City of Edinburgh Council is considering a citywide initiative to restrict mobile phone use in schools.
The plan follows a successful pilot at Portobello and Queensferry high schools, with consultation through March.
The preferred option would use lockable pouches in secondary schools and cabinets in primary schools.
Councillor James Dalgleish said there is broad support and that community input and an impact assessment are needed to address concerns.