From the Director of School Culture and Character Development

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope this Newsletter finds you well and that your child is enjoying the last two weeks of school and all the associated events. Today, I want to address a concerning issue that has unfortunately made its way into our community: vaping. It is important for us to be aware of its prevalence in society and take steps to ensure our students feel safe.

Vaping has become increasingly popular among young people in recent years, and our school is not immune to this trend. It is disheartening to witness the impact it can have on our students and their overall well-being. As the Director of Student Culture and Character Development, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of every student within our school.

One common behavior associated with students who vape is their tendency to leave class regularly and loiter in the bathrooms. This has led to disruptions in the learning environment and compromised the overall cleanliness and comfort of these facilities. Rest assured, we are closely monitoring these behaviors and will be implementing consequences for repeated instances of such nature, under the assumption that students may be vaping.

I want to emphasize that the bathrooms are not intended for students to hang out in. They are meant solely for their designated purpose. In order to create a safer and more conducive learning environment, I am actively working to identify alternate safe spaces within the school where students can spend their free time. I want to encourage students to make use of these spaces and feel supported in doing so.

We understand that students who vape often try to conceal their devices in areas where teachers may not easily find them. While they may not be in their pockets, they could be hidden elsewhere. We are committed to addressing this issue by employing various strategies, including thorough monitoring and searching procedures. Our goal is to create an environment where students can focus on their studies without the temptation or pressure to engage in harmful behaviors.

I must admit that this is not the topic I had planned to discuss in this week's Newsletter. However, it is crucial for us all to be aware of this situation so that we can work together to make our community as safe as possible for our students.

Please know that we have support systems in place for students who may be struggling with vaping or any other related issues. Our counselling services are available to provide guidance and assistance to those who need it. It is essential that we approach this matter with empathy and understanding, as addiction is a complex issue that requires a compassionate response.

As we navigate this challenge together, I want to assure you that we are committed to fostering a positive and healthy environment for your children. By addressing the issue of vaping head-on and implementing appropriate measures, we aim to cultivate a school culture that supports the well-being of all students.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in our collective mission to provide the best educational experience for our students.

Mrs Mary Shelley

Acting Director of Student Culture and Character Development