A generation of children have lacked “discipline and order” during lockdown, the Education Secretary has claimed.
Gavin Williamson launched a crackdown on bad behaviour in schools during a year which has "inevitably" affected pupils' discipline.
He said that long periods in lockdown meant that schools now had to ensure "out of control" behaviour did not effect learning environments.
Mr Williamson threw his weight behind a mobile phone ban at schools - saying they distracted from "exercise and good old-fashioned play" and could lead to cyber-bullying.
"While technology has been invaluable keeping children learning during lockdowns and we support its use, it's now time to put the screens away, especially mobile phones," he wrote in the Daily Telegraph.
It came as the Department for Education (DfE) announced details of its £10 million “behaviour hub” programme which it says will be up and running in time for the summer term.
Officials have appointed 22 “lead schools” across the country, all of which have strong behaviour policies and receive glowing Ofsted reports.
These schools will be responsible for assisting and advising other struggling schools to improve their discipline regimes, for example, by banning mobile phones and implementing quiet corridors.
The Education Secretary added: "Maintaining good discipline is an absolute must in any classroom and is one of our key priorities. Out-of-control behaviour will also destroy the wholesome and happy environment that every school should have, leading to bullying, and turning playgrounds from a place of joy to a jungle.
"That's why I am totally behind schools and colleges taking firm action to create a disciplined and calm environment, and putting in place a strong behaviour culture where students are taught how to behave well and are clear about what is expected of them."
