Wellbeing Report

Vaping

Over recent months, there has been a growing concern about the impending epidemic affecting young people in relation to the use of e-cigarettes and the trendy pastime of vaping. As this activity grows in popularity, most teenagers are unaware of the associated risks and the potential impact vaping can have on their development and overall health.

Vaping is the act of inhaling a vapour created by an electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette. Although vaping is often marketed as being the “healthy” alternative to smoking, doctors advise that if you do not smoke, then you should not start vaping. Although vaping products are infused with enticing flavours, many contain high levels of nicotine as well as other chemicals and additives, that when inhaled, can cause severe damage to the lungs.

Australia has strict regulations in place for nicotine-containing products and despite it being illegal to use, sell or buy nicotine for use in e-cigarettes, users are purchasing these products through other avenues. A recent Australian study of chemically flavoured liquids used in e-cigarettes which are available here for purchase over the counter, has confirmed concerns about their safety and respiratory health impact. Attempts are being made to regulate vaping and ban the importation of vape products containing nicotine. Unfortunately, manufacturers are developing vaping devices that are cheaper and easier to hide than conventional cigarettes, making it more attractive and cost-effective for impressionable young people.

For more information click the attached vaping fact sheets from the Lung Foundation Australia.

Or, if this Special Report has raised some issues, please seek support from your medical practitioner or one of the following services:

• Lung Foundation Australia 1800654301
• Quitline 13 78 48
• Poisons Information Line 13 11 26
• Alcohol and Drug Foundation 1300858584

"EVERY DAY COUNTS"

Primary School Attendance

In Primary School, some students miss on average 3 weeks of school per year. That’s half a year of school by the end of Year 6.  As we are approaching the end of Term 1, it is a timely reminder of the importance of students being at school and engaged in learning Each and Everyday.

Going to school every day is the single most important part of your child’s education. Students learn new things at school every day – missing school puts them behind.

Remember,  EVERYDAY counts. If your child must miss school, speak with your classroom teacher as early as possible. Openly communicating with the school about all absences is a good way to prevent attendance issues being escalated to a School Attendance Officer.  If you’re having attendance issues with your child, please let your classroom teacher know and our Wellbeing Team so we can work together to get your child to school every day.

From The Wellbeing Team