Consistent daily implementation
A cantonal rule provides the framework, but schools still need a consistent process for lessons, breaks, and transitions.
Schools · Resource
Phone bans at Swiss schools, canton by canton.
More Swiss cantons are restricting personal phones in compulsory schools, during lessons, breaks, or both. This page summarizes the current status and shows how schools can turn a policy into a workable daily routine.
Canton
In force since
Scope
- Vaud VD 2018 Compulsory schools — the first canton to introduce a cantonal restriction.
- Aargau AG Aug 2025 Through grade 9. Phones, tablets, and smartwatches during lessons, breaks, and school events.
- Nidwalden NW 2025/26 Personal devices across all compulsory schools and school grounds.
- Valais VS 2025/26 All schools in the canton.
- Ticino TI 30 March 2026 Extended across compulsory schooling.
- Fribourg FR Motion Dec 2025 Planned from grade 1 through upper-secondary school.
- Bern BE from 2026 (municipal) Municipal rules emerging, including in Köniz and Lyss-Busswil.
As of July 2026 · for reference, not a legal document. Sources: SRF · NZZ · swissinfo.
A clear direction
More cantons are setting clear limits.
Vaud introduced a cantonal rule in 2018. Aargau, Nidwalden, and Valais followed in 2025/26, with Ticino extending its rules in March 2026 and further proposals under discussion elsewhere. For schools, the practical question is how to apply these rules consistently each day.
What a ban actually needs
Four practical questions a policy alone does not answer.
One process instead of repeated reminders
A clear routine at the entrance reduces repeated reminders and individual discussions throughout the day.
Coverage beyond lesson time
Where rules also cover breaks, excursions, or school events, the process must work beyond the classroom.
A transparent protocol
A documented process gives students, parents, teachers, and school authorities a shared understanding of how the rule is applied.
Turning the rule into a routine
Five steps to a phone-free school day.
We adapt the setup to your cantonal requirements, school structure, and preferred rollout model.
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1
Communicate the policy clearly
Inform students and parents before rollout. A concise letter can explain the rule, daily process, exceptions, and emergency procedures.
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2
Choose the rollout model
Assign one pouch per student for a full rollout, or use rotating class sets for a pilot, selected year groups, or exam periods. Position openers where they fit the school flow.
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3
Secure phones at the start
Students place their own phones in the pouches at the designated point. The devices remain with them, so the school does not need to collect or centrally store them.
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4
Follow the agreed school-day process
Phones remain secured for the agreed periods. Emergency access, medical needs, and other exceptions follow procedures defined by the school.
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5
Unlock at the end of the day
Students unlock their pouches at designated openers before leaving. The number and location of openers are planned around the school layout and expected flow.
Quick answers
Common questions about cantonal and school-level rules.
Which cantons already have a ban?
The table above summarizes the status known at the stated date. Regulations can change, so confirm the current requirements with the relevant cantonal education authority before adopting or updating a school policy.
Is this decided by the canton or by the school?
It depends on the canton. Some set binding requirements, while others leave the decision to municipalities or individual schools. In every case, the school needs to define how the rule works in daily practice.
Does a ban usually cover breaks too?
The scope varies. Some rules apply only during lessons, while others also cover breaks, school grounds, excursions, or events. Schools should define the applicable times and areas clearly.
Our canton has no ban yet. Can we still do this?
A school may be able to introduce its own rule even without a canton-wide ban, depending on the applicable legal and administrative framework. Many schools begin with a pilot, selected year groups, or exam periods before deciding on a broader rollout.
The mechanism
The same three-step process in every setting.
The process works for individual classes and whole-school rollouts. No software is involved, and the school's IT does not have to be part of it.
Phone goes in
Everyone puts their own phone into a pouch.
Lock
One press on the stud locks the pouch. It stays with its owner, in hand, pocket or bag, and cannot be opened by hand.
Unlock
Hold the pouch against a LOKD Opener and it releases in one motion.
Plan your rollout
Tell us about your school and canton.
Share your school type, canton, number of classes, and whether you are considering a pilot, exam period, or full-year rollout. We will recommend a setup and can provide samples and communication templates. On-site support is available for selected projects.
Explore the research behind phone restrictions.
Review research on attention, academic performance, cyberbullying, and adolescent mental health that informs the debate around school phone policies.
Studies & facts →