We believe and support the following educational aims in respect of substance use and misuse:

• to enable students to make healthy, informed choices by increasing knowledge, challenging attitudes and developing and practising skills
• to provide accurate information about substances
• to increase understanding about the implications and possible consequences of use and misuse
• to encourage an understanding for those experiencing or likely to experience substance use
• to widen understanding about related health and social issues, eg sex and sexuality, crime, HIV and AIDS
• to seek to minimise the risks that users and potential users face
• to enable young people to identify sources of appropriate personal support.

 These aims are fulfilled through aspects of the students’ experiences in the taught curriculum, the informal curriculum and through opportunities for extra-curricular activities. The school actively co-operates with other agencies such as Community Police, Social Services, LEA and Health and Drug Agencies to deliver its commitment to Drugs Education and to deal with incidents of substance use and misuse.

 The following procedures apply to students involved in any school activity: throughout the school day; at lunchtimes; during after school activities; travelling to and from school; during short visits and excursions; in school social activities etc.

 In the first instance rumours of drug-related incidents are investigated sensitively by the Head of Year or a member of the Senior Management Team (or, if on a school visit by the teacher in charge). Information concerning students is kept on a need-to-know basis. Where the school judges that it is appropriate, parents will be involved.

 If the rumours appear to have some grounds Mr Tebay and/or a member of The Senior Staff will continue the investigation. If possible, the student is interviewed with two people present.

 Students who are found with alcohol, solvents or tobacco in their possession are breaking school rules and are dealt with according to normal procedures such as detention, exclusion from other excursions/activities, fixed term exclusion etc.. In all cases parents are informed.

 If possession of/experimenting with an illegal substance is suspected the student concerned will be asked to turn out his/her locker, pockets and bag. If suspected drugs are found they are locked in the safe with a note of the date, place and time of finding and the Police are contacted for further advice.

 If a student is suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, solvents or another substance during a school activity, parents will be contacted and appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken, including exclusion from school.

 In all cases where a student is found in possession of an illegal substance the matter will be referred to the Police and the student will be excluded from school. Advice is offered regarding the treatment, support and counselling services available.

 In all cases where an illegal substance is supplied to other students in school a referral to the Police is made and permanent exclusion is likely to follow.