The King Alfred School in Highbridge will become 'mobile phone free' from the start of the summer term, the headteacher has told parents.

Principal Dan Milford made the announcement in a recent school newsletter.

The new rule will come into effect from Monday, June 6.

Mr Milford said: "All students need to ensure that their phones are switched off, away in bags for the entire day, including during lessons and at social times.

"This is following feedback from staff and parents and also to ensure that we are supporting all our students with being as focused as possible each day, keeping themselves safe online and away from too much screen time.

"I am sure you will support us by ensuring your child follows the ‘mobile phone free school’ approach."

There had previously been plans at a central government level to ban mobile phones from schools entirely.

Former education secretary Gavin Williamson called phones in the classroom 'distracting' and 'damaging' as he unveiled the proposed ban last summer.

But newly revised guidance issued earlier this year by the Department for Education has placed the onus back on to school headteachers.