A Macclesfield school has taken a bold step to tackle the challenges posed by mobile phones.

From the start of term, pupils at Tytherington School have been asked to place their devices in a lockable pouch at the beginning of the school day.

The pouch remains sealed until home time, creating a completely phone-free learning environment.

 Tytherington is the first school in Cheshire East to introduce such a scheme and headteacher Manny Botwe says it has already made a noticeable difference.

"We've seen an immediate improvement in behaviour and concentration in class," Mr Botwe said.

"Safeguarding concerns linked to phones and social media have already taken a noticeable dip, and students are engaging more positively with their learning and with one another."

The pouches are kept locked until the end of the school day (Credit: Tytherington School)

Although mobile phone use had previously been restricted, students were still able to access them in the morning, in toilets, or discreetly during lessons.

However, staff reported that the distraction of simply having the device close by was enough to affect focus and wellbeing.

The initiative is part of Tytherington's commitment to improving the mental health and wellbeing of its students by helping them 'disconnect to reconnect' with friends, schoolwork, and their wider community.

 Mr Botwe added: "Young people today face pressures from social media that simply didn't exist a generation ago.

"By removing phones from the school day, we're giving them the space to concentrate on their studies and develop the social skills that will serve them well in later life."

It is hoped the initiative will help students 'disconnect to reconnect' (Credit: Tytherington School)

It is understood the scheme has been positively received by students, many of whom have spoken of lower stress levels, greater concentration, and the benefit of enjoying conversations and interactions without the constant pull of notifications.

Some have even reduced their screen time outside of school, having realised they can manage without their phones for much of the day.

 The move has also been well received by parents, many relieved to see the school take decisive action to curb excessive screen time.