Eton tightens iPad rules for Prince George and first-year pupils

Eton College has imposed stricter restrictions on school-issued iPads for first-year pupils, including Prince George, following parental complaints about screen addiction among boys. The new rules limit device use to approved educational apps and a safe browser with a teacher-approved website whitelist. The policy change follows a December 2024 letter from over 100 parents claiming the previous approach enabled gaming and unrestricted internet access during lessons and homework, harming boys' wellbeing. New measures include a blanket 9pm device curfew, 30 minutes earlier on Saturdays, and removal of weekend access to non-educational sites. Prince George, 13, started at Eton on Sept 8, and his parents have previously limited their children's screen time. The school says its approach, developed through consultation, balances technology use with online safety and has met regulatory requirements.