A drug can be defined as a chemical, which causes changes in the way the human body functions mentally, physically or emotionally. For the purpose of this policy we are concerned with drugs which have the power to change a previous mood and the way a person thinks about things, and drugs on which the taker may become physically or more often psychologically dependent.
The school sees itself as having a role in the process of enabling students to increase control over and improve their health. We endeavour to promote the well being of students by:
1. Providing a safe and healthy environment. 2. Promoting positive health behaviours. 3. Increasing knowledge about health.
To this end, in response to the encroaching drug culture in our society we feel the need to implement a comprehensive policy to address the problem of substance misuse.
The policy will focus on:-
1. Strategies for prevention of substance misuse problems i.e. Alive-O, S.P.H.E. 2. Procedures for dealing with drug incidences in the school. cf. Code of Discipline.
Implementation of the Policy
The policy will be available from the principal to the B.O.M. , Teachers and other staff members and parents who request it. The policy will be regularly evaluated and updated where necessary. The school wishes to make clear that the primary role of substance misuse prevention rests with the parents.
Data Protection
Records
Sensitive personal data/disciplinary notes are stored under lock and key in the case of manual records and protected with firewall software and password protection in the case of electronically stored data and are retained indefinitely.
Prevention
Education:
It is accepted amongst educationalists that education about alcohol, tobacco and drugs is best carried out by teachers through the inclusion of S.P.H.E. in the curriculum. This S.P.H.E. Programme would also draw on the expertise available from the community i.e. Parents, Gardaí, and Health Board.
Smoking
School Policy
The school is a no-smoking area.
Students are not permitted to smoke or possess cigarettes on the school premises or in any other place.
Visitors will comply with the no-smoking policy.
Pupils found smoking on the school premises will be reported to the Principal and parents will be informed.
Alcohol
Pupils will not be allowed to bring alcohol into the school or to consume alcohol in school or during any school activities.
Students breaking these rules will be dealt with according to the school’s disciplinary procedures.
Illicit Drugs and Solvents School Policy
Students are forbidden from being in possession of or using illicit drugs or solvents on the school premises.
Students found in possession of illicit drugs will be dealt with according to the school’s disciplinary procedures.