Mobile Phone Usage Policy

Trafford Music Service (TMS) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for all children and young people.  

This policy supports the TMS Relationship and Behaviour Policy and helps ensure that mobile phones and smart devices do not interfere with learning, wellbeing, safeguarding or positive relationships. For the purposes of this policy, "smart devices" include mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches and any device capable of communication, photography, video recording or internet access. 

This policy applies to all students attending TMS lessons, ensembles, rehearsals, music centres, performances and visits.  

This policy supports the TMS Behaviour High-Fives: 

1. We listen carefully and follow instructions. 

2. We speak kindly and respectfully. 

3. We treat one another with kindness and consideration. 

4. We look after our learning spaces and resources. 

5. We try our best and encourage others.  

Many students travel independently to and from music centre activities and may bring a smart device for safety and communication with parents/carers. 

Students may bring a smart device to TMS activities, but: 

• Devices must be switched off or on silent and stored securely during sessions. 

• Devices must not be used unless authorised by a member of staff. 

• Smartwatches must not be used for calls, messages, recording or internet access. 

• Students must not photograph, record or livestream staff, volunteers or other students. 

• Students must not access social media or messaging platforms whilst attending TMS activities. 

A student may be permitted to use a smart device where there is: 

• A medical need. 

• A safeguarding need. 

• Another exceptional circumstance agreed by TMS. 

Any agreed arrangements will be discussed with parents/carers and recorded where appropriate. 

Misuse of a smart device will be managed in line with the TMS Relationship and Behaviour Policy. Examples include: 

• Using a device without permission. 

• Recording or photographing others. 

• Distracting learning. 

• Accessing inappropriate content. 

• Bullying, intimidating or upsetting others. 

 Staff will follow the Behaviour Support Steps (Chance, Choice and Educational Consequence). Serious or repeated incidents may result in parental contact, recording of the incident, involvement of senior leaders and, where necessary, withdrawal of provision in line with the Relationship and Behaviour Policy.  

The use of smart devices by staff and volunteers is governed by the Trafford Music Service Social Networking and Acceptable Use of IT Policy, together with safeguarding, data protection and staff conduct procedures.  

 Staff and volunteers must: 

• Maintain professional boundaries with students and parents/carers. 

• Use approved TMS communication systems only. 

• Not use personal devices to photograph, film or record students. 

• Keep personal devices on silent and avoid personal use during contact time with students. 

• Explain the purpose of any device used for educational or administrative purposes. 

• Follow venue and school policies when working on external sites.  

Parents/carers are not normally permitted access to TMS teaching areas except when specifically invited by staff and will therefore be chaperoned. Visitors must: 

• Follow staff instructions regarding smart device use. 

• Not photograph or record students without permission. 

• Comply with safeguarding and data protection requirements. description

Students bring smart devices to TMS activities at their own risk. Trafford Music Service accepts no responsibility for loss, theft or damage to personal devices brought onto its premises or activities.