Health Experts Call for Reduced Screen Time in English Schools

October 13, 2026 - 16:47

A coalition of clinicians is urging the government to cut screen time in classrooms, warning that prolonged use of digital devices is contributing to a rise in long-term health problems among students. The group points to growing evidence linking excessive screen exposure to conditions such as short-sightedness, which has become increasingly common among young people in England.

The clinicians argue that current classroom practices, where tablets and laptops are often used for extended periods, may be putting children at risk of lasting damage to their vision and overall wellbeing. They are calling on education officials to introduce clearer guidelines on how long students should spend looking at screens during the school day.

According to the experts, short-sightedness is not the only concern. They also highlight issues such as eye strain, poor posture, and reduced physical activity, all of which can affect a child's development and long-term health. The group suggests that schools should balance digital learning with more traditional methods and regular breaks away from screens.

The warning comes as technology continues to play a central role in modern education. While digital tools offer clear benefits for learning, the clinicians insist that health must not be overlooked in the push for innovation. They want the government to treat screen time as a public health matter and act before more children are affected.

Parents and teachers are also being encouraged to monitor how much time young people spend on devices, both in school and at home. The clinicians say that small changes, such as shorter screen sessions and more outdoor activity, could make a meaningful difference to children's health in the years ahead.