Drugs Education Policy The Governing Body of Blandford St Mary Primary School is committed to promoting equality and diversity. By recognising and appreciating individual needs and differences the school will be broadly representative of the communities it serves, and be a place where children and staff will thrive – physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. This will be achieved by implementing equal opportunities and diversity practice across the three dimensions of the School’s activity: as an employer; an educator; and a resource of the local community.
Blandford St Mary Primary school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. These posts will require a criminal record bureau check via the CRB.
Date Adopted: Jan 14 Review Date: Jan 15
In Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole
Our drugs education policy ensures that we take a whole school approach on the issue of drugs as part of our commitment to being a healthy school. This policy has clear procedures for responding to drug-related incidents. Sanctions for incidents are in accordance with the school's good behaviour policy. Definition Drugs are those that are legal, such as alcohol, tobacco and solvents, over the counter and prescribed drugs and illegal drugs such as cannabis, ecstasy, heroin, crack/cocaine and LSD. Our school believes that the possession and use of drugs in school or during the school day is inappropriate. All the drugs covered in this policy are not permitted to be brought, sold or otherwise obtained on school premises or during the school day, including when pupils are on school visits. These rules apply to adults working at and for the school. Individual exceptions may be made of pupils who need to take prescribed medicines where appropriate. Drugs Education Our school provides a planned drug education curriculum as part of PSHE that reflects knowledge and understanding, attitudes and personal and social skills, and is delivered in a manner appropriate to the age of our children. Our focus is to: Enable pupils to make healthy, informed choices by increasing knowledge, exploring their own and other people's attitudes. Promote positive attitudes towards healthy lifestyles. Provide accurate information about substances. Increase understanding about the implications and possible consequences of use and misuse.
On the whole teachers teach drug education, but where appropriate, outside visitors may contribute and will be aware of the school drug policy. Teachers have access to on-going support and training as part of their own professional development and teaching materials are reviewed for quality and relevance. The school actively co-operates with other agencies such as community police, social services, the LEA and health and drug agencies to deliver its commitment to drugs education. Statutory Duty of School The headteacher takes overall responsibility for this policy and its implementation, for liaison with the Governing Body, parents, LEA and appropriate outside agencies. The headteacher ensures that all staff dealing with substance issues are adequately supported and trained.
Implementation Schools In instances involving substance misuse or supply on the premises, and following discussion between staff members who know pupils well, parents will be informed at the earliest opportunity by the headteacher. The school and parents can then work together to support the young person involved. The Governing Body will be involved in drug education and drug-related incidents in the same manner as any other matter concerning the direction of the school. Monitoring, Evaluation and Review The Governing Body will review this policy annually and assess its implementation and effectiveness. The policy will be promoted and implemented throughout the school.