PICTURES: Laois school runs first ever 'phone free' art comp!

In the lead up to Scoil Bhríde Rathdowney's 'phone free' pact, the Parents' Association ran a highly successful 'Free to be Kids' art competition for students.

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The Rathdowney school held an assembly for the competition, where the winners were announced. 

Artwork was judged by local artist Billy Dollard, with a winner and a runner up in each class.

Fifth year student at St Fergal's College, Ava Standish Lalor, gave a fantastic speech to students on the negative effects that owning a smartphone can have.

"As kids, you shouldn't have to worry about comparing yourselves to people online," the student said.

"You should be outside making memories, not worrying about the latest trends, or what other people are thinking. I got my first phone when I was 13, and I felt at the time that it was time enough. I got my first smartphone when I was 16, which meant that I was more mature and responsible when it came to using social media for the first time," Ms Standish Lalor said.

Parents of children attending Scoil Bhríde Rathdowney, St. Colmcille's NS Errill, Killadooley NS and Borris-in-Ossory NS have the option to sign a pact declaring that they will go 'phone free'. 

“Go Phone Free” is a voluntary initiative which invites parents and guardians to collectively agree, in respect of their children, the following code: No smartphones while in primary school, no social media while in primary school, and to respect the age rating on video games.

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