A LEDBURY school has banned pupils from bringing in mobile phones after fears they could access material that was inappropriate for their age.

With access to new technology becoming ever easier, children at Ledbury Primary School can no longer take mobile phones, iPods, iPads, tablet computers and games consoles onto school premises.

It follows a joint decision by teachers, governors, parents and the pupils themselves.

Deputy headteacher Jill Evans said the ban was brought in because devices allowed youngsters to take photos and videos, and to play games that may not be suitable for their age.

She was keen to point out no cases of mis-use had taken place.

Previously, pupils aged three to 11, had been allowed to take devices in to be used for half an hour on Friday afternoons, as part of a ‘golden time’ reward system for good behaviour.

But this policy has now been reversed.

Mrs Evans said: “We were becoming aware with the increasing emphasis now put on safeguarding and keeping the children safe, and that we could not guarantee the children were safe.”

She said she was unaware of any local or national policy existing banning pupils from bringing such items into school.

“We are pretty much at the forefront of new initiatives and new ideas.

“I think it is something that will be employed by more and more schools as time goes on.”

In a letter sent to parents and guardians on Thursday, April 18, headteacher Julie Rees said the move was taken after a consultation with parents and a discussion with the school council.

Mrs Rees said it was because the school was “unable to monitor the content of applications on these when they are brought from home”.

Whilst we positively embrace technology at LPS our first priority is to safeguard our children,” she added.

The school has also bought a set of iPads with the help of donations from parents and the Parent Teacher Association.

These are to be used in lessons and monitored by staff.

Herefordshire Council could not confirm if other schools in the county follow a similar policy.