Deputy Principal, Wellbeing

E cigarettes and Vaping 

The vaping debate has saturated the media lately with new evidence reinforcing the dangers of these easy to access, fruity flavoured, nicotine filled devices. 

Our school has a zero tolerance towards vaping and e cigarettes, and we are working very hard to both educate and deter our students from the habit. We have a whole new generation who are sadly at risk of addiction. Schools and parents both play an important role in educating teenagers and monitoring for any signs of addiction or access to vapes. Statistics suggest that even at Year 7, one in 10 students have tried vaping. 

Vapes can be very hard to detect as they are often fruity smelling can look like pens, toys or even the toggle on a hoodie. They are preferred by young people because of their bright colours, they are easy to obtain and to conceal. The marketing of vapes unashamedly target youth and are available at convenience stores (even in Hamilton) and online. 

DARTA (Drug and Alcohol Research Training Australia) define a vape as a device which heats liquid into an aerosol or vapour which is then inhaled into a person’s lungs. In Australia it is illegal to buy, possess or use liquid nicotine for vaping. 

One vape can contain the equivalent nicotine to 50 cigarettes! An Australian toxicology review identified up to 240 chemicals in a single vape with 38 of these listed as poisonous. Vaping is highly addictive, and this is one danger that many of our students are not aware of. If you are concerned your child may be nicotine dependent, then your local GP would be the best person to discuss this with. The wellbeing team is also available to offer any support.

Additionally, we encourage open dialogue with your children to create a united front against this pervasive issue.

The school has implemented strict disciplinary measures to deter vaping and e-cigarette use within our school premises. By enforcing consistent and fair consequences, we aim to reinforce the message that these activities are not only harmful but also unacceptable within our educational community.

Please take the time to engage in conversations with your children about the dangers of vaping and e-cigarettes, and encourage them to make choices that prioritise their health and future well-being.

We appreciate your trust and partnership as we navigate these critical issues together.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.