Schools across England are resorting to drastic measures, including cutting down hedges and moving bike sheds, to combat the vaping 'public health emergency' among pupils. Teachers report that students addicted to vaping are hiding in toilets and behind vegetation, leading schools to alter their grounds to eliminate hiding spots.
According to a BBC survey, nearly one-fifth of secondary schools have installed vape detectors, which cost around £1,000 each. These devices detect chemicals in vape mist and alert staff. Additionally, 35% of schools have deployed extra staff to patrol grounds. Head teachers say the financial strain is significant, with funds diverted from educational resources like IT equipment.
Lisa McCall, head teacher of Wales High School in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, keeps a desk drawer full of confiscated vapes and refill bottles. She described a 'really dangerous incident' where a student was offered a vape spiked with an illegal substance, leading to hospitalisation. Following the incident, the school installed three detectors, began using metal-detector wands, and assigned staff to monitor corridors.
McCall noted that while fewer students now vape on campus, the measures are a 'total distraction from why we are here – to educate and support children.' Some parents are unsupportive, believing vaping is safer than smoking. Teachers like Matthew Day, a science head of year, give out Blu Tack to help addicted students fidget less in class, as they show signs of addiction.
The NASUWT teachers' union has called for vapes to be added to the list of banned items, allowing schools to search pupils. They describe the issue as a 'public health emergency' and urge the government to fund educational programmes on vaping dangers. The government stated it is 'taking urgent action' on the worrying rise in youth vaping.
