All Saints Catholic College in London is extending its school day to 12 hours, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., to tackle smartphone addiction among its students.

The headteacher, Andrew O'Neill, decided on the extended hours after finding cyberbullying and catfishing issues on confiscated student phones.

Although the school banned cellphones in 2016, persistent issues with online crime and underdeveloped social skills among students have been noted.

O'Neill calls for more parental involvement in monitoring smartphone use and references John Wallis School in Kent as a successful model of limiting phone use.

The extended school day will feature play-based evening activities such as art, drama, sports, and cookery, along with a hot dinner, to encourage real-world engagement over digital interaction.

The school's policy aligns with the UK government's push to reduce mobile phone use in schools, which may lead to statutory bans if schools do not follow voluntary guidance.

Despite facing criticism, the headteacher is committed to combating smartphone addiction and fostering healthier technology habits and human connections among students.