Phone away box proves a huge hit in Newbridge college

The Principal of Leinster Senior College in Newbridge has patented an idea to remove smartphones from the classroom… one which has gone down extremely well with his students!

Karl Hegarty, now in his third year as Principal, patented the idea of the "Phone-Away Box" with the college's Study-Hall Supervisor Gerry Ryan, and he hopes to roll out the idea soon in both the UK and Ireland.

The concept of the phone-away box involves students placing their phones inside see-through boxes attached to their lockers before the start of their classes.

The students can then retrieve their phones back during their lunch break and at the end of the day.

There are also regular checks by during the day by Gerry Ryan and John Flaherty, who is another Study-Hall Supervisor.

One of his own students, Eddie Allen, accompanied Mr. Hegarty on Ireland AM on Thursday the 5th of December to discuss the initiative.

Eddie admitted that he was "a bit apprehensive at first", but later adjusted to the idea and came to appreciate it.

Karl Hegarty has a background as a career guidance counsellor, and was a teacher for many years in the nearby Patrician Secondary School.

Mr. Hegarty explained: "My background a career guidance counsellor has largely influenced this idea. Young people flourish when they have guidelines and structure. I really do believe that it does teach them responsibility".

He did stress that he doesn't want to come across as a "dinosaur" and that he does think that technology definitely has a place in the classroom.

"There is no need to have a draconian attitude towards technology, nor should students have complete freedom to do whatever they want. It's all about finding a balance and a proper compromise between technology and education".

"State exams do not allow phones to be used during them, so this is just preparing students for them. Even the phone buzzing in your pocket can be a distraction".

"This new policy now means less distraction for students checking their phone and the teacher has their undivided attention".

Since then, he has revealed that he has received only positive feedback from students and their parents- with many remarking on how much more battery life their phones have at the end of the day!

The phone lockers are supplied for €25 and can be installed for €30.

Further information about he Phone-Away Box can be found on www.phoneawaybox.com or by phoning 087 637 9590.