Dear Parents and Carers
As you may be aware from media headlines, the number of young people choosing to use vape devices has increased, including in the Shropshire and the wider, local area. Sadly, we have also had reports of a small number of pupils bringing these items into school.
This is a concern to us as a school, due to potential immediate dangers and side effects, as well as the unknown long-term health risks. We continue to educate students on these risks through Assemblies and PSHE sessions and wish to draw your attention to the following website, designed to support young people, parents and carers, if they regularly use a vape device.
https://teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping
It is illegal for stores to sell vaping products to under 18s. Worryingly, we have become aware that some children are attempting to buy vapes in Shrewsbury and then sell them onto friends.
The following links will take you to a BBC article showing the characteristics of legal and illegal equipment and to Trading Standards where any shops selling to underage children can be reported.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64319417
Mr Hartshorn, Acting Assistant Head, took an assembly last year, outlining the school’s approach to students who bring these devices into school. Our stance is clear; such devices must not be brought or used on site, and there will be serious sanctions for those who do so.
We very much appreciate your support and would ask you to please discuss our concerns with your child/children, highlighting the health issues around vaping and the potential consequences of vaping in school.
Kind regards
Dr Tinker
Headteacher
