Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Chief Executive Officer Jack de Groot feels that consistent restrictions with clear parameters are necessary to support both students and staff.
“Though the majority of our schools already have a phones-off-and-away approach, it’s important to make clear that this is the right approach for all our students,” Jack said. “Of course, there is a place for mobile phones in our lives, but that’s not at school.”
Parent representative George Giovas agrees that school is not the place for mobile phones.
”It is important to have a consistent, proactive and collaborative approach to the issue of mobile phones,” George said.
The safety and wellbeing of all our children and teachers during school is paramount. This is something that needs to be understood, respected and adhered to.
With the social media ban for children and young people under 16 coming into effect in December, the move to restrict phone use feels particularly timely. It also provides an opportunity to encourage students to prioritise real-world interactions and build social skills accordingly. School staff will receive support in implementing this policy throughout the school day, including guidance on appropriate consequences for breaches.
Of course, a small number of carefully considered exceptions to these rules will be allowed. For example, some students with diabetes use mobile phone apps to monitor their blood sugar levels and require access to a phone for safety reasons. Digital literacy will continue to be valued, but the ban certainly supports boundary-setting and perspective.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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14 Dec 2025
From Facebook
This week we say a very special farewell to Mrs Villiers, who after 24 years of dedicated service is retiring from the Holy Cross school community π’ For over two decades, Mrs Villiers has been a constant presence, supporting generations of students, working alongside countless staff, and giving her time, care and commitment to everything she did. Her kindness, professionalism and deep care for our school and students have left a lasting mark that will be felt for many years to come. Throughout her time, Mrs Villiers has seen our school grow and change, yet one thing has always remained the same, her unwavering dedication to our students and community. We are incredibly grateful for the knowledge, warmth and positivity she has shared so generously. Thank you, Mrs Villiers, for everything you have given to our school over the past 24 years. You will be greatly missed ππ We wish you all the very best in this next chapter of your life, you truly deserve it β€οΈ Mrs Villiers will be farewelled with a guard of honour this Wednesday afternoon, and it would be fantastic if you could join us for the occasion π
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14 Dec 2025
From Facebook
This week we say a very special farewell to Mrs Villiers, who after 24 years of dedicated service is retiring from the Holy Cross school community π’ For over two decades, Mrs Villiers has been a constant presence, supporting generations of students, working alongside countless staff, and giving her time, care and commitment to everything she did. Her kindness, professionalism and deep care for our school and students have left a lasting mark that will be felt for many years to come. Throughout her time, Mrs Villiers has seen our school grow and change, yet one thing has always remained the same, her unwavering dedication to our students and community. We are incredibly grateful for the knowledge, warmth and positivity she has shared so generously. Thank you, Mrs Villiers, for everything you have given to our school over the past 24 years. You will be greatly missed ππ We wish you all the very best in this next chapter of your life, you truly deserve it β€οΈ Mrs Villiers will be farewelled with a guard of honour this Wednesday afternoon, and it would be fantastic if you could join us for the occasion π
14 Dec 2025
From Facebook
On Wednesday we presented Imogen (Year 4) with the CSPD Primary sports award for her outstanding achievements in swimming this year, competing at Zone, Diocesan, MacKillop and NSW State level competitions. πββοΈ Congratulations to Imogen on this wonderful achievement! π
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