Matthew Godfrey, Deputy Head at Downe House School in Berkshire shares some guidance and advice on how parents and schools can work collaboratively to prevent children from taking up vaping
The current prevalence of vaping among teens is a central concern for all schools and parents. Earlier this year, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health described its rise as an “epidemic” among teenagers, even though vaping is illegal before the age of 18. If the current trend in vaping were to continue at this pace, all children would be vapers within five years.
Vapes are a particularly pernicious problem since they’re highly addictive and easily accessible. Their small size and lack of odour also makes them harder to spot. At least the lingering smell of tobacco made it obvious when a cigarette had been smoked. Manufacturers have also marketed vape products directly at teenagers with alarming effectiveness.
It has always been the case that young people cope better with the inevitable challenges of being a teenager if parents and schools work in partnership to support them through these difficult years. So, what strategies can be put in place to combat this latest trend"
The most important way in which schools can support parents and children is by providing information and strategies, so that both parties feel empowered to avoid and deal with potential threats.
If schools do this in a clear and non-confrontational way, it fosters honest and open disc...