What action is the Welsh Government taking to ensure all schools are delivering comprehensive education about the serious health risks of vaping?
The Curriculum for Wales includes mandatory learning about learners’ physical health and their decisions. The statutory guidance, which all schools must consider highlights the importance of learning about the risks and harm of different substances.
To support this, the Welsh Government, in collaboration with Public Health Wales (PHW), has developed a comprehensive curriculum resource to support schools in educating learners about the health and well-being impacts and risks of vaping.
This resource is designed for both primary and secondary schools, and aligns with our commitment to promoting informed and healthy choices among young people.
Through PHW, the Welsh Network of Health and Well-being Promoting Schools has recently launched a 3-part webinar series on vaping, aimed at supporting school staff in secondary schools with up-to-date knowledge to support learners’ well-being. Designed for teachers, youth workers, and others in education, the webinar provides practical insights to help address the health risks of vaping in school settings, and includes signpost support and related resources.
In addition, PHW provides guidance and information to schools to assist in identifying and supporting young people who may be addicted to vaping. This includes signposting to appropriate support services.
PHW has also produced a guide for parents and carers, offering practical advice and support to help address vape use among children and young people.