ShuttleID’s founder is urging school transport operators to discuss local phone-ban policies with schools now, as app-based ticketing could be affected when pupils board services.
Department for Education guidance published on 29 June requires schools in England to become mobile phone-free by default from 1 September.
Schools must restrict phone and smart-device access throughout the day, though headteachers can decide how policies are implemented and should consider pupils’ journeys to and from school.
Even less restrictive policies may disrupt smartphone ticketing if devices are confiscated, leaving pupils without QR codes or phone tickets. Operators relying on apps should provide printed passes, smartcards or other alternatives.
Restrictions may also limit pupils’ access to live tracking and service alerts, although parent-focused systems should retain boarding notifications and safeguarding functions.
https://www.route-one.net/news/operators-must-address-school-phone-ban-before-september/