31^st January 2022

Reminder about Policies related to Smoking, Vaping and Drugs

Dear parents and carers,

I am writing to remind you of our policy around smoking, vaping and drugs.  Our policy is clear – smoking, vaping, alcohol, illegal drugs and psychoactive substances (including legal highs) and any related equipment is not permitted at any time on the school site or during any school related activities

It is against the law and contravenes school policy.  The school’s policy on drugs is consistent with our overall aims and ethos, safeguarding policy, and relates to the possession of drugs related equipment and the use or supply of drugs in school or on any school visit.

As a school, we have a statutory duty to promote the wellbeing of students and this policy recognises the primary importance of keeping the school free from drugs in order to protect and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of students.

The school will therefore protect the school community from the dangers of drug misuse through education and guidance, and by the appropriate management of drug-related incidents in school.  The policy is intended to align the school’s practices with the legal requirements and guidance of the DfE and local authority.

Please note the following from our drugs/smoking policy;

Drugs on School Premises

The policy applies to the school premises, the school day, while travelling to and from school, journeys in school time or any school related activity, work experience, day and residential trips and when the school is deemed to be in loco parentis in line with the school Behaviour Policy.

The sanction imposed against students will be determined in the light of each individual event but all incidents involving the possession, use or supply of drugs or illegal substances in school or on any school visit, will carry the risk of permanent exclusion, even if it is a first offence. The dealing and distribution of drugs on the school premises will result in permanent exclusion.

Please be assured that the school will take a strong stand against any behaviour which compromises the safety of students or contravenes our policies.  Students will be reminded of the policy and educated about the dangers of this as part of our Personal Development programme.  We will also be conducting spot checks where students will be searched, as part of our drive to keep the school community protected and safe.

If you have any concerns or questions in relation to any of these issues, please contact a member of the safeguarding or pastoral team.  The following website provides information which may be useful.  https://www.talktofrank.com/

Smoking/Vaping

As you may be aware, there has been a rise in vaping across society, particularly amongst young people and I must remind you that this is not allowed on or near the school premises.   As a result of this, we will be undertaking random spot checks of students to be searched for any prohibited items, including vapes, lighters, liquids, cigarettes and any related paraphernalia.  Any items found will be confiscated and disposed of. Parents will be informed and students will be sanctioned, including exclusion, in line with our behaviour and smoking/drugs policy which can be found on the school website.

I remind you of the legal position regarding vaping.  On 1 October 2015 it became illegal:

- for retailers to sell electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or e-liquids to someone under 18

- for adults to buy (or try to buy) tobacco products or e-cigarettes for someone under 18

Students will be reminded of these policies in assemblies throughout the year and their lessons and I ask that you reinforce this message at home.  Thank you for your support in upholding our policies and keeping everyone safe.

Regards,

Rachel Hudson

Headteacher