Page 33 - Pastoral Guide 2025-2026

» Do they have the reasons and the tools to say no? Are they concerned about the impact on sports? Are they concerned about the impact on health conditions? Are they concerned about parental reactions? Do the disincentives outweigh the temptations?
» Are they at risk of addiction? The average cigarette contains around 12mg of nicotine. Elf Bars – among the most commonly used in the UK – contain 20mg of nicotine per 2ml of liquid, equating to around 40-50 cigarettes’ worth in fewer than 600 puffs.
» How do teenagers obtain vapes, snus and nicotine pouches? Most vapes are ordered online and delivered to the home address. It is therefore a good idea to check parcel deliveries. Some vapes are sold on as a means of making money or winning friends. Vapes are also handed out for free at festivals by vape companies.
» Is your child using a fake ID to purchase vapes, snus or nicotine pouches? If so, this is against the law. If shops are selling vapes or nicotine products to teenagers without checking ID, then this should be reported to the police and trading standards.
Our approach at Malvern College is based on education and deterrence
Pupils are educated about vapes through a combination of assemblies, talks with pastoral staff and Life Skills lessons and talks. HouseMs sometimes conduct room searches, sometimes at random, and sometimes if there is suspicion of vaping or other illicit substances. If a pupil
is caught vaping or using nicotine products, associating with vapers, or in possession of a vape or nicotine products, then the following consequences will apply.
– First offence: Interview with the Head
of Pupil Guidance, 7-day gating, 2-hour Saturday detention, vaping/smoking cessation program, random drugs testing program and communication with parents.
– Second offence: Interview with the Deputy Head. Vaping/smoking cessation program. Random drugs testing program. The pupil must expect to be rusticated.
PASTORAL GUIDE TO MALVERN COLLEGE
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