Ballyclare Secondary School in County Antrim hosted school leaders from across Northern Ireland on Tuesday to showcase its phone-free policy. The school has used lockable Yondr pouches since August 2025. Pupils place phones in the pouches at the start of the school day. The pouches stay with pupils during lessons and breaks. Staff unlock them at the end of the day.

Acting Principal Wendy Shingleton welcomed the visitors. She stated the policy created a significant change in school atmosphere. Pupils show more presence in lessons and greater engagement with peers during breaks. Staff observe improved interaction quality in classrooms.

Shingleton noted the school opened its doors to demonstrate the phone-free model in practice. She expressed hope the visit encourages other leaders to adopt similar measures.

Visitors observed the system, spoke with staff and pupils, and discussed daily management and pupil adaptation.

Graham Dugoni, CEO and founder of Yondr, commented on the event. He said it shows momentum for phone-free schools. Dugoni added that leaders recognize distraction-free settings aid pupil connection to learning and each other.

Staff report better concentration in lessons, reduced distractions, stronger pupil engagement, and increased face-to-face interactions at breaks. Parents support the initiative. The school notes an overall change in atmosphere.