St Anne’s says its pupils were able to focus better on their schoolwork, spend more quality time with family and reduce stress

credit St Anne's Catholic High School for Girls — credit St Anne’s Catholic High School for Girls

More than 200 students successfully ditched their phones and other digital devices for a whole week as part of an Enfield’s school’s challenge.

St Anne’s Catholic High School for Girls challenged the pupils to take part in a ‘digital detox’ to help them think about the affect it has on their lives.

The school says that, during the week, students were able to focus better on their schoolwork, spend more quality time with friends and family, reduce stress from constant notifications, explore new hobbies and improve sleep.

Throughout the week, students documented their experiences in digital journals, which were shared on the school’s social channels. They reflected on how their mood changed without devices, which activities they enjoyed most, whether their focus improved, and what challenges they faced — along with how they overcame them

Year seven student Ipar said: “I’ve been calmer without TikTok, Snapchat, and social media. At first, I felt unproductive, but I got over it by reading and playing the piano. Now, I focus better and feel more at peace.”

And year eight pupil Lilliya said: “It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions, but I’ve realized I don’t need to rely on a device! Colouring helped me stay busy, and whenever I felt bored, I just picked up my colouring pens.”

Damien Delaney, assistant headteacher, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students for taking on this challenge and demonstrating such commitment. The St Anne’s Digital Detox Week was all about reflection, balance, and personal growth, and our students have truly embraced it. We’ve been delighted with the support from our families and how the challenge has prompted important conversations about the over-reliance on devices.

“Every student who completed the challenge has been awarded a St. Anne’s Digital Detox Week badge and certificate, and they will also take part in a special rewards event to celebrate their achievement.”

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