Mobiles banned by Charles’ old school to boost pupils’ social skills

PRINCE Charles’ former school has banned the use of mobile phones.

Gordonstoun, which the Duke of Edinburgh also attended, wants to encourage conversation among pupils.

Lisa Kerr, the principal of the £41,250-ayear school, in Elgin, Scotland, said: ‘With competition for university places and jobs tougher than ever, we know young people need more than just great exam results to succeed in life.

‘Spending time interacting with each other rather than their phones helps to build strong social and interpersonal skills.’ Miss Kerr added: ‘Without decisive action, we are in danger of raising a generation who cannot build meaningful relationships with a wide range of people.’

The reaction from pupils to the ban had been ‘surprisingly positive’, she said.

Miss Kerr added: ‘One of the effects has been a big increase in noise levels between lessons. We see this as a good thing. Children are holding conversations, sharing jokes, catching up with each other face to face, not via social media.’