THE Education Secretary has backed schools which take a “firm” stance on poor behaviour - including headteachers who “tackle the scourge of ever-present mobile phones” and maintain quiet corridors.

Gavin Williamson launched his latest push against bad behaviour - reiterating calls for mobile phones to be banned in schools - following a year which he said has “inevitably” affected students’ discipline.

But the school leaders’ union accused the minister of “not doing his homework”, saying heads are reporting “a sense of calm and co-operation” from students and that “behaviour has never been better”.

We asked readers if they thought banning mobile phones in school was a good idea. Yvonne Clark said: “Shouldn’t be on during school day but a lot of us have children travelling on buses so should not be outright banned.”

Terry Mills explained; “Should have been done years ago.

“There is scientific evidence to prove mobile phones create cognitive impairment amongst adolescents and teens, any distractions during the learning years are going to have consequences.”

Lorraine Mary Alfaro commented: “Many Parents will not support this and will not support schools in enforcing it because they will not cope with the tantrums of their teenagers being separated from their devices.”

Kirsty Armstrong continued: “Completely agree with this, they shouldn’t have them during school hours.”

Stephen Martin added: “Too right its a good idea. Our phones are banned at work. Schools are a sort of work place.”

Jane Madderson explained: “I agree. They are a distraction. They limit face to face socialising, kill conversation and can be used in a harmful way. I think they have a place but not in school. Being older ,we never had them and I think to do without them during school hours is reasonable.”

Paul Cash said: “I can’t believe they are not already banned, a total distraction.”