In September, we introduced Yondr pouches to NLCS – a bold step designed to create a healthier balance between our students and their phones. As Deputy Head Pastoral, my role is to support the wellbeing of every pupil, and while I’m not anti-technology, I do have concerns about the addictive nature of smartphones, particularly when it comes to social media. It’s not about demonising devices – it’s about being honest about the opportunity cost: every hour spent endlessly scrolling on a smartphone is an hour not spent talking, thinking, creating, or simply being present.
We expected pushback. After all, teenagers are teenagers. They’re meant to test boundaries – that’s how they grow. But what’s been striking is just how well the girls have adapted. Compliance has been high, with 72% of pupils in our recent survey saying the system is straightforward and easy to remember. And while some have understandably tried to find workarounds, the overall response to Yondr pouches has been thoughtful and measured.
It’s a delicate balance. We want to equip our pupils to be independent, responsible young people who are ready for the world beyond NLCS. But we also know that self-regulation – especially when it comes to something as habit-forming as smartphone use – doesn’t always happen automatically. Sometimes, young people need the adults around them to help set boundaries, and to support them as they develop the discipline and insight to manage those boundaries themselves.
What’s been particularly encouraging is that the girls themselves are recognising the benefits. In our student survey, nearly half said that using Yondr had already improved – or might have improved – their mental health. A similar number reported a change in their relationship with their phones. The girls cited benefits such as more time with friends, better control of screentime, and greater appreciation for their phones when they do get to use them in the evenings. That the girls can identify and recognise these benefits is music to my ears.
One of the most unexpected and heartening outcomes has been the impact of Yondr on school trips. Staff have reported a tangible shift: evenings where the girls are playing cards, chatting, and engaging with one another, rather than disappearing into their screens. Staff support for Yondr pouches has undoubtedly been a key reason for their success.
As we move forward, it’s imperative that we ask ourselves some key questions in order to ensure the system serves its purpose:
- Is it working? Early signs are encouraging: fewer phone-related behaviour incidents, a clear reduction in messaging or filming one another during the school day, and genuine screen-free time gifted to our students.
- How can we reduce breakages? We’ll be reminding students to close their pouches after unlocking them, store them separately from heavy items, and to take care of them knowing there’s a potential replacement cost.
- What’s next for mobile phone regulation? We plan to continue using Yondr for Years 7–11. After much reflection, and in consultation with our Year 6 parents, we have also taken the step to ban smart phones in Year 7 from September 2025.
I launched Yondr pouches in an assembly to NLCS students back in September 2024. In preparation, I gave up my own phone for seven days—no exceptions. It was my own social experiment, and I felt strongly that if I was going to lead this change, I needed to experience what felt like to be smartphone free. Initially, it was terrifying. I hated it. I felt lost and, at times, lonely. But gradually, something shifted. I was more present at home. My children benefitted. I was less distracted in meetings. I cooked in the evenings rather than scrolling. On two evenings, I even managed to fit in some exercise! I realised the opportunity cost for me was vast—and if it was true for me, how much more true might it be for our young people?
Yondr hasn’t just reduced screen time – it’s sparked a wider conversation about balance, presence, and wellbeing. That, ultimately, is the success we hoped for.
Nicky Dawson, Deputy Head, Pastoral
