MSC vaping and smoking policy

Over recent weeks we have noticed an increase in the number of young people using e-cigarettes (vapes).  We have updated our school smoking policy in response to this, to ensure we are adhering to the Department of Education and Training’s comprehensive smoking policies.  You can view our updated smoking / vaping policy attached to this newsletter, and on our school website. Please note that our primary response to students who smoke or vape at school is educational – an appointment with the school nurse will be made and the student will learn about the health risks of using these products.  If subsequent smoking or vaping occurs at school after this, the student may be suspended from school due to the health risks to others.

In Victoria, a person must not smoke or use e-cigarettes on school premises or within 4 metres of any pedestrian access point to school premises.  This prohibition applies whether or not the e-cigarette contains nicotine.  Smoking and vaping are also not permitted during school events and excursions held off school premises.  In Victoria it is illegal for any person aged 18 or over to obtain, possess or use nicotine e-cigarettes, or e-cigarette cartridges containing nicotine, or nicotine liquids for use in a vaporiser, without a prescription. It is illegal to sell e-cigarettes to, or buy e-cigarettes for, any person aged under 18 years whether or not the e-cigarettes contain nicotine.

Parents, carers, schools and community all play an important role in protecting children and young people from, and educating them about, the harmful effects smoking and vaping.

Research from the Royal Children’s Hospital shows many parents and carers are not aware of the harmful effects or how their views about smoking and vaping can impact the likelihood of a young person taking up smoking or vaping.

The Department of Education and Training has developed resources to help you learn more about the health risks of smoking and vaping, and some suggestions about how to talk to children and young people about vaping, and where to get support. To access the resources, go to https://www.vic.gov.au/smoking-and-vaping-advice-parents

Please read our updated policy and contact the College if you would like any more information.

MSC Smoking and vaping policy

Vaping and Young People Fact Sheet

Marie Clark

Assistant Principal

Maffra Secondary College