OUR VOLUNTARY CODE

The Charter Has Three Pillars

The three local schools in the parish — Lisnagry, Ahane and Castleconnell N.S. — together with our Parents Associations, Ahane GAA, Lisnagry FC and UL Bohs, are launching this voluntary code for the children in our three schools.

No Smartphones

No smartphones for primary school-age children.

No Social Media

No social media for primary school-age children.

Respect Game Ratings

Respect the age ratings on video games.

OUR VOLUNTARY CODE

Why We’re Choosing a Different Path

“Free from smartphones, free from social media and free to be kids.”

Lisnagry N.S. has joined with Ahane N.S. and Castleconnell N.S. — together with the support of our Parents Associations, Ahane GAA, Lisnagry FC and UL Bohs — to launch the No Smartphone Voluntary Code for children across our three schools.

Every child has received a copy of the code to keep at home. We hope families will pop it on the fridge as a daily reminder of our shared values, and give it their thoughtful consideration.

Better Focus in Class

Fewer distractions mean more engagement and stronger learning.

Stronger Friendships

More face-to-face interaction and deeper, more meaningful connections.

Improved Wellbeing

Less anxiety and pressure from online comparison and constant connection.

More Time for Play

Encouraging active play, creativity and time outdoors.

Safer Environment

Protecting children from inappropriate content and online risks.

Happier Children

A childhood filled with balance, confidence and joy.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Questions from Parents

Why has the school adopted this voluntary code?

Lisnagry N.S. joined with Ahane N.S. and Castleconnell N.S. — and with the support of our Parents Associations, Ahane GAA, Lisnagry FC and UL Bohs — to launch this community-wide code. We believe it is a valuable support for parents who are unsure when, or if, to introduce personal smartphones and social media, and it opens the door to meaningful conversations at home about digital boundaries and age-appropriate content. By agreeing collectively to delay smartphones and social media, we can reduce peer pressure and create a more balanced digital environment for our children.

No. This isn’t a ban on all phones — it’s a shared commitment not to give children smartphones with internet access and social media before secondary school. If your child needs a way to keep in touch, we recommend a simple “brick” phone or a children’s smartwatch that can call and text without internet browsing, social media or app access.

The school office is always available on 061 331 257 or office@lisnagryns.ie during the school day for anything urgent. For the school run itself, many of our families use a basic non-smartphone or a GPS smartwatch, so children can call or text home without the risks that come with an internet-connected phone.

We know senior pupils in particular may walk home independently, and parents understandably want reassurance. A basic phone or smartwatch gives that peace of mind without introducing the risks of a smartphone. Families in schools that have adopted similar codes have found this works well right up to the move to secondary school.

This is a voluntary, whole-school and whole-community code rather than a rule enforced by the school alone. It works best when as many families as possible take part together, so that not having a smartphone feels normal rather than a child feeling singled out. We will ask parents to sign up to the code, and we will check in regularly with our school community to keep it working well for everyone.

You can download our Parent Information Leaflet below, or contact the school office directly — we are always happy to talk it through with any parent.

Growing Together parent information leaflet cover

DOWNLOAD PARENT INFORMATION

Learn More & Get Involved

Download our Parent Information Leaflet for more details about the code and how it supports your child’s wellbeing.

OUR IMPLEMENTATION

How We’re Making It Work

Our whole-school approach ensures consistency, support and success.

Phones Off & Away

Phones must be switched off and stored in school bags from arrival to departure.

Whole School Commitment

Our staff, pupils and parents are working together for consistency and clarity.

Open Communication

We keep conversations going and listen to feedback from our school community.

Education & Awareness

We teach digital literacy, online safety and healthy habits at an age-appropriate level.

Supporting Wellbeing

We provide supports and resources to help children thrive in a balanced, healthy way.

Working Together for Our Children’s Future

By choosing this voluntary code, we are choosing a childhood filled with learning, laughter and real connections. Thank you for your support.