Sir Martyn Oliver used his annual report to state the influence of social media “clearly plays a part” in driving disruptive behaviour Ofsted said schools should be a 'sanctuary' (Image: Getty Images)

Social media is “chipping away at attention spans” and promoting disrespectful behaviour, Ofsted’s chief inspector warned as he said schools should be a “sanctuary” for children away from their mobile phones.

Sir Martyn Oliver used his annual report to state the influence of social media “clearly plays a part” in driving disruptive behaviour through eroding children’s patience for learning. His comments come amid an increasing debate over to what extent phones should be allowed in schools.

He said: “Access to social media for young people and mobile phone use in schools have bec

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