Technology continues to play a central role in education, but the Victorian Government is introducing new measures aimed at reducing its dominance in classrooms, with secondary schools set to include planned device-free learning time from Term 1, 2027.
Under the changes, schools will be asked to structure parts of the day where students step away from digital devices and return to more traditional and interactive forms of learning. These may include whiteboard work, printed materials, group discussions, practical experiments and performance-based tasks, depending on subject needs.
The approach builds on earlier policies that placed limits on device use in primary schools, including a 90-minute daily cap for students in Years 3 to 6 and reduced screen exposure in early years. It also follows the statewide restriction on mobile phones in schools.
The government has paired these education settings with ongoing investment in school infrastructure, pointing to a $20 billion program to build and upgrade facilities across Victoria.
As part of that pipeline, Ngayuk College has officially opened, welcoming 200 Year 7 students in its first intake. The school is expected to expand year by year as the cohort progresses through secondary education. Facilities include science and creative learning spaces, a library, sports field, outdoor courts and modern classrooms. It sits near Marra Specialist School and is a short distance from Kalkallo North Kinder, placing it within a growing education precinct.
Government representatives say the policy shift is aimed at improving classroom engagement and learning outcomes. Premier Jacinta Allan said reducing screen time would help students focus more on learning and ensure access to high-quality education across communities.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said structured screen-free time supports better engagement and encourages more direct participation in lessons, with schools being asked to embed it into everyday teaching practice.
Local MPs also highlighted the opening of Ngayuk College as part of broader efforts to expand public education in growing suburbs. Ros Spence said families in Kalkallo now have a new secondary school close to home, while Lauren Kathage pointed to continued investment in public schooling.
The announcement also included political contrast, with the government criticising opposition budget proposals, arguing they could affect education funding and school support services. The Liberals and Nationals have previously cut education spending, according to the government, while opposition figures maintain their plans focus on broader budget savings.
The new device-free learning requirement is expected to be phased in ahead of its 2027 start date, giving schools time to adjust timetables and teaching approaches.
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