School pupils are being given the chance to skip homework for two weeks – but only if they use their smartphones less and read a book instead.
Staff at Solihull School, an independent primary and secondary school, said the scheme aimed to help pupils start the new year with less screen time and develop a love of reading.
“[We’ve] Said: ‘Put out your device, pick up a book and read’, said head teacher Charles Fullingham.
Pupils told BBC Radio WM that they are enjoying the change and that it has helped them use their phones less.
“It’s motivating me to put those devices on charge at the end of the lounge,” Lauren said.
Another pupil, Isabella, said it was easy to “forget the benefits of just reading a book” when people turned to their screens during free time.
Mr Fillingham said he hoped the move, which covers smartphones and other screen-based devices, would help students “instill a lifelong love of reading”.
“Education is a balance – it’s not all about being ready for a super electronic future, we want creativity, we want innovation, we want kids to get lost in a book.”
Under the scheme, students below sixth form can choose to read any fiction or non-fiction book and are asked to share what they learn with their class.
Sixth Form students are given reading material to help with their A-level studies and future decisions.
“It’s definitely helped me put my phone down,” said Ethan, who was using the time to read articles about math.
The government has Prevented by legal ban on smart phones in schools.but it issued guidance last year to ensure that restrictions are enforced in schools.