At The Hart School, we are committed to helping every student flourish academically, personally, and socially. Our aim is for all students to reach their full potential as confident, respectful, and resilient individuals, equipped with the skills they need to thrive in the modern world.

To further support this vision and strengthen our core values of Happy, Ambitious, Resilient, and Tolerant we are introducing a significant new initiative. From  September 2025, students in Years 7–11 will use Yondr pouches, making The Hart School a fully device-free environment for students during the working day.

This step builds on our existing mobile phone policy and reflects our commitment to reducing the negative impact of smart devices and social media. By securely locking phones in tamper-proof Yondr pouches, students can focus more fully on learning, enjoy richer face-to-face interactions, and maintain a calmer, more respectful school atmosphere. Devices will remain with students in their pouches and will only be unlocked at the end of the school day.

This is an important move forward in supporting student wellbeing and creating a focused, engaging, and positive learning environment for all.

What is the aim of the Yondr scheme?

Introducing Yondr pouches is one way we are supporting that vision. By becoming a device-free school during the working day, we are helping reduce some of the pressures and distractions that mobile phones can bring especially around mental health, concentration, and social interaction.

This approach is supported by the Department for Education, which recognises the growing impact phones and social media can have on students’ wellbeing and engagement in school. Many teenagers report that constant phone use and social media can increase anxiety, affect sleep, and lead to a lack of focus in lessons. A recent University of Cambridge study even found that nearly half of British teenagers feel addicted to social media.

By using Yondr, we are creating a calmer, more focused school environment where students can fully engage with their learning, enjoy face-to-face friendships, and build positive habits. 

We are excited about the positive impact this will have and appreciate your support as we make this important change.

About Yondr pouches

Yondr pouches are lightweight and compact, made from slightly padded material. They fit easily into bags. Accidental spills are not an issue as the pouch is water-repellent. However, it is not entirely waterproof so care should still be taken.

Mobile phones, smartwatches, and ear pods must be secured in the pouch. Each pouch features a secure locking pin at the top. Students will push it into the locked position when they arrive on-site each morning. At the end of the school day, multiple unlocking stations will be strategically located in high-traffic areas to avoid delays and staff will be present to oversee.

Who provides the Yondr pouches?

The Hart School is providing Yondr pouches free of charge to all students in Years 7 to 11, as part of our commitment to a focused and supportive learning environment.

Students are expected to look after their pouch. If it’s lost or damaged, a £15 replacement fee will apply.

How a Yondr Pouch works