Year 7 starter pack

Your child does not need a smartphone to travel on the bus. We have compiled this handy explainer showing how to apply for a physical bus pass

A brick phone is usually considered one that can call & text but cannot access the internet or take photos/videos.

Some phones that look like brick phones may have a camera and some internet capability.

To ensure no internet capability, pair with a no data SIM (see below).

Here are some brick phone options with no camera you could consider:

• Nokia 105 2G (approx. £25)  - 2G network
• Maxcom MM135LITE Classic (approx. £17) - 2G network
• Nokia 105 4G (approx. £23) - 4G network
• Oakcastle F101 (approx £18) - 2G network

It is important to pair the brick phone with a no data SIM card to ensure it is call and text only. Without this, some brick phones can still access the internet and so the risks are still present.

Here are some no data SIM options:

• Ecotalk sim £4 a month - unlimited calls & texts, no data - (This company diverts its profits into rewilding projects within the UK. It operates using the EE network)
• Asda talk & text £4 a month - unlimited calls & texts, no data (Operates using the Vodafone network)

Be aware that 2G networks are being phased out. Here are the current timelines for each operator, subject to change:

• EE - From May 2029
• Vodafone / Three - Spring 2030, some areas before
• o2 - No set date currently but will be 2033 latest.

If it's confusing, we have created a chart to help: Can a phone connect to the Internet?

You may want to consider avoiding tracking entirely. If you do choose to track, here are some non-smartphone options:

Tile (approx £20), Samsung Smart Tag (approx £10), Apple Airtag (approx £20)

We have not tested it but The NODI Flip seems to allow children to listen to Spotify playlists on the go.

If you have concerns about the new smartphone policies, we have compiled a FAQ with most commonly asked questions and answers.