Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 12 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made of any impact of the use of digital devices in schools on pupils’ wellbeing, educational outcomes and screen time levels, and whether it will commit to a national review of device use in schools, including transparency around monitoring and parental opt-out options.
The Scottish Government keeps emerging national and international evidence under review, including work from bodies such as UNESCO and the OECD, to understand how digital tools can support learning, wellbeing and positive educational outcomes. This research highlights both the opportunities offered by well-designed digital approaches and the importance of ensuring device use is purposeful and balanced.
It is important to distinguish between school-managed learning devices and personal mobile phones. School-issued devices are used to support learning, giving pupils structured and secure access to digital tools. Decisions on the use of digital devices sit with local authorities, who are best placed to understand learners’ needs at various ages and stages, assess any local impacts, and ensure appropriate safeguards are in place while engaging with parents and carers.
In contrast, mobile phones are personal devices where the content accessed is not managed by local authorities. In response to concerns highlighted in the Behaviour in Scottish Schools Research and the Programme for International Student Assessment, the Scottish Government introduced refreshed guidance in August 2024 on mobile phone use in schools, making clear that headteachers can take the steps they consider appropriate to respond to the disruption caused by mobile phones, including full restrictions across the school day.
The Scottish Government will continue to consider international research and good practice in line with the wider digital vision and strategic approach for school education in Scotland, while recognising that day-to-day decisions on device use remain the responsibility of local authorities.