Research summary
| 10 min read
Do not disturb: A review of removing cell phones from New Zealand’s classrooms – Summary
20 November 2025
Summary:
To support greater student engagement and achievement, from the beginning of Term 2, 2024, school boards and kura were required to ensure that students do not use cell phones during the school day. ERO’s review of the implementation of this policy shows there have been positive impacts to students’ focus and achievement as well as a reduction in bullying. This summary provides an overview of the findings and recommendations of ERO’s full report Do not disturb: A review of removing cell phones from New Zealand’s classrooms
