Introduction
At Methodist College Belfast, we are committed to safeguarding the health, safety and wellbeing of every member of our diverse and inclusive school community. Guided by our CREST values of Commitment, Responsibility, Excellence, Stewardship and Team, we strive to create a nurturing environment where all pupils can flourish and realise their full potential.
We recognise the serious risks associated with the misuse of drugs and provide a safe, supportive and drug-free learning environment. This policy sets out our approach to preventing and responding to the misuse of substances by pupils It applies to all pupils on school premises, during school activities and when representing the College in any capacity.
In keeping with our ethos, we aim to:
ā¢ Promote pupilsā understanding of the risks and consequences of drug misuse through effective education, pastoral care and support.
ā¢ Ensure a consistent, compassionate and robust response to all drug-related incidents, prioritising the welfare and dignity of each individual.
ā¢ Work in partnership with parents, guardians, statutory agencies and the wider community to support pupils in making healthy, informed choices.
ā¢ Uphold our duty of care by taking all reasonable steps to protect pupils from harm, while fostering personal responsibility and respect for others.
The College does not tolerate the possession, use or supply of illegal drugs, alcohol or other harmful substances by pupils and will take appropriate action in accordance with this policy, the Collegeās Positive Behaviour Policy and relevant legislation.
At Methodist College Belfast, we believe that by living out our values and working together as a team, we can empower every Collegian to make positive choices and contribute to a safe and caring school community.
Rationale
Methodist College Belfast is committed to providing a safe, caring and inclusive environment where every pupil can thrive academically, socially and personally. The misuse of substances poses significant risks to the health, wellbeing and prospects of young people, as well as to the wider school community.
As a school guided by our CREST values and school ethos, we recognise our responsibility to educate, protect and support our pupils. The increasing availability and diversity of substances including illegal drugs, alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medicines and emerging substances require a clear, consistent and compassionate approach.
Aim
This policy is designed to:
ā¢ Safeguard pupils from the dangers associated with substance misuse.
ā¢ Promote informed, healthy choices through high quality education and Pastoral Care.
ā¢ Provide clear procedures for preventing and managing drug-related incidents.
ā¢ Ensure compliance with statutory guidance.
ā¢ Foster a culture of openness, responsibility and mutual respect in partnership with parents/guardians and external agencies.
By implementing this policy, the College aims to uphold its duty of care, support the personal development of every pupil and maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for all.
Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:
Drugs and Substances
The term ādrugs or substancesā refers to all substances that can affect a personās physical or mental functioning. This includes, but is not limited to:
ā¢ alcohol, tobacco and tobacco-related products, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and electronic cigarettes;
ā¢ over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol and cough medicine;
ā¢ prescribed drugs, such as antibiotics, painkillers, antidepressants, antipsychotics, inhalers and stimulants such as Ritalin;
ā¢ volatile substances such as correcting fluids or thinners, gas lighter fuel, aerosols, glues and petrol;
ā¢ controlled drugs such as cannabis, LSD, ecstasy, amphetamine sulphate (speed), magic mushrooms, heroin and cocaine;
ā¢ new psychoactive substances (NPS), formerly known as legal highs, which contain one or more chemical substances that produce similar effects to illegal drugs.
ā¢ incense, salts or plant food and marked ānot for human consumptionā to avoid prosecution; and other substances such as amyl or butyl nitrite (known as poppers) and unprocessed magic mushrooms.
Drug Misuse
Misuse includes involvement in the purchase, the use, possession, supply or intent to supply drugs, involvement in facilitating the supply of drugs and giving support to or encouragement of drugrelated activity.
A pupil who is found to be in possession of a drug or any illegal substance for abusive purposes when in school is in breach of College rules, even if the pupil is not planning to consume the drug while under the Collegeās jurisdiction. A pupil does not have to make a monetary or any other gain from passing on a drug to be guilty of involvement in supply.
Please note the above list is not exhaustive. The above examples demonstrate the type of conduct which would be in breach of College rules and in some cases the criminal law also. Each individual case of involvement in the misuse of drugs is assessed independently.
Drug-Related Incident
Any occurrence involving a substance as defined above, which may include:
ā¢ Finding drugs or drug paraphernalia on school premises.
ā¢ A pupil suspected of being under the influence of a substance.
ā¢ Disclosure or suspicion of a pupil possessing, using, or supplying drugs.
ā¢ Medical emergencies related to substance misuse.
ā¢ Allegations or evidence of drug use or supply during school activities.
The Designated Teacher
The Designated Teacher for any matter connected with drug abuse is the Pastoral Vice Principal. If a member of staff has any concerns regarding a pupil's possible involvement with drugs or alcohol, they should consult the Designated Teacher who will decide, in consultation with the Principal, on an appropriate course of action.
In the event of the Designated Teacher for Drugs (Pastoral Vice Principal) being unavailable, another member of the Senior Leadership Team is to be contacted.
Education, Prevention and Early Intervention
Methodist College Belfast is committed to providing high-quality, age-appropriate drugs education as an integral part of our Preventative Curriculum. Our approach is designed to empower pupils with the knowledge, skills and values needed to make informed, responsible decisions about drugs and substance use.
Key elements of our drugs education provision include:
ā¢ Curriculum Integration: Drugs education is delivered through Personal Development, Science and other relevant subject areas, ensuring progression and continuity from Form 1 to Sixth Form.
ā¢ Evidence-Based Content: Lessons are based on up-to-date, factual information about the effects and risks of drugs, including illegal substances, alcohol, tobacco, prescription and over-the-counter medicines and new psychoactive substances.
ā¢ Skills Development: Pupils are supported to develop decision-making, assertiveness and refusal skills as well as strategies for managing peer pressure and seeking help.
ā¢ Values and Attitudes: The programme encourages pupils to reflect on their own values and attitudes and to consider the impact of drug misuse on themselves, their families and the wider community.
ā¢ Preventative Curriculum: Drugs education is closely linked to the Collegeās pastoral care system, ensuring that pupils know where to seek advice and support if they have concerns about drugs or substance misuse.
ā¢ External Agencies: The College works in partnership with external agencies and specialist providers to enhance the quality and relevance of drugs education, and to provide additional support where needed.
ā¢ Parental Engagement: Parents/guardians are informed about the Collegeās approach to drugs education and are encouraged to reinforce key messages at home.
Our aim is to reduce the likelihood of substance misuse among pupils and to identify and support those who may be at risk as early as possible.
Key strategies include:
ā¢ Promoting a Positive School Environment: Fostering a culture of respect, inclusion and wellbeing where pupils feel valued, supported and able to seek help without fear of stigma.
ā¢ Raising Awareness: Providing regular information and reminders about the dangers of drug misuse through assemblies, workshops and school communications.
ā¢ Building Resilience: Equipping pupils with the skills to resist peer pressure, manage stress and make healthy choices through the Personal Development curriculum and Preventative Curriculum.
ā¢ Early Identification: Encouraging pupils, staff and parents/guardians to report concerns promptly and confidentially, enabling early support and intervention.
ā¢ Targeted Support: Providing additional support for pupils identified as being at risk, including access to counselling, mentoring and referral to external agencies where appropriate.
ā¢ Partnership Working: Collaborating with parents/guardians, statutory agencies and community organisations to ensure a coordinated and effective response to prevention and early intervention.
ā¢ Through this comprehensive approach, Methodist College Belfast aims to equip all pupils with the understanding and resilience to make positive, healthy choices throughout their lives.
Medicines in School
Methodist College Belfast recognises that some pupils may require prescribed or over-the-counter medicines during the school day to support their health and wellbeing. The College is committed to ensuring that medicines are managed safely and responsibly in line with statutory guidance and safeguarding principles.
Any prescribed medicines to be taken in school by pupils must be left with and taken at the school Medical Room, except for inhalers and EpiPens which should be carried by the pupil. Other prescribed medicines may only be carried by pupils with the permission of the School Nurse following consultation with the parent/guardian of the pupil and the Pastoral Vice Principal.
ā¢ Parental Consent: Medicines will only be administered to pupils with consent given from a parent or guardian.
ā¢ Prescribed Medicines: Only prescribed medicines will be accepted for administration in school. Medicines must be provided in the original container, clearly labelled with the pupilās name, dosage instructions and expiry date.
ā¢ Non-Prescribed Medicines: Non-prescribed medicines (e.g., paracetamol) will only be administered with parental consent.
ā¢ Storage: All medicines will be stored securely in a designated location, accessible only to authorised staff. Pupils are not permitted to carry medicines unless agreed as part of an individual healthcare plan (e.g., for asthma inhalers or emergency medication)
ā¢ Administration: Medicines will be administered by trained staff in accordance with the instructions provided. A record will be kept of all medicines administered, including the date, time, dosage, and name of the staff member.
ā¢ Self-Administration: Where appropriate, and with parental and medical agreement, pupils may be allowed to self-administer their medication under staff supervision.
ā¢ Emergency Procedures: Clear procedures are in place for the administration of emergency medication (e.g., adrenaline auto-injectors, asthma inhalers), and relevant staff receive regular training.
ā¢ Review and Communication: Individual healthcare plans will be reviewed regularly in consultation with parents, healthcare professionals and the pupil.
The College is committed to working in partnership with parents/guardians and healthcare professionals to ensure that pupilsā medical needs are met safely and effectively during the school day.
Procedures
Substance Related Incidents
Methodist College Belfast is committed to responding to all drug-related incidents promptly, fairly and in accordance with statutory guidance. The safety and wellbeing of pupils and staff are the highest priorities at every stage.
1. Immediate Safety and First Aid: If a pupil is unwell or at risk, seek medical assistance immediately and follow first aid procedures. Remove any potentially harmful substances from the vicinity if safe to do so.
2. Initial Assessment: The member of staff discovering or suspecting a drug-related incident should inform the Designated Teacher for Drugs or the Principal as soon as possible. Record the facts objectively, including time, location, people involved and any substances or paraphernalia found.
3. Securing Evidence: Secure any substances or related items in a safe, sealed container, witnessed by another member of staff. Do not attempt to analyse or taste any substance. Store evidence
securely until it can be handed to the PSNI as required by law.
4. Informing Senior Staff: The Designated Teacher for Drugs or Principal will take responsibility for managing the incident. Staff will assess the situation, considering the welfare of all involved.
5. Parent/Guardian Involvement: Parents or guardians of the pupil(s) involved will be informed at the earliest appropriate opportunity, unless there are safeguarding concerns that require a different approach.
6. Involvement of External Agencies: The PSNI must be informed if a controlled substance is found or suspected in line with legal requirements. The College may also seek advice or support from health professionals, social services or other relevant agencies.
7. Investigation and Confidentiality: The College will conduct a thorough, fair investigation, respecting the confidentiality and dignity of those involved. Pupils will be given the opportunity to explain their actions and circumstances.
8. Recording and Reporting: All incidents will be recorded and stored securely. Records will include details of the incident, actions taken and outcomes. Relevant information will be shared with staff and/or Governors as appropriate.
9. Support and Sanctions: The College will consider both supportive interventions (e.g., counselling, referral to support services) and appropriate sanctions in line with the Positive Behaviour Policy. Each case will be considered individually, taking into account the pupilās welfare, intent and previous conduct.
10. Follow Up: The College will monitor the wellbeing and progress of pupils involved in drug-related incidents. Support will be offered to individuals and, where appropriate, to the wider school community.
11. Review and Reflection: After any significant incident, the College will review procedures and outcomes to ensure best practice and continuous improvement.
Alcohol
Pupils are not permitted to bring alcohol onto College premises, to consume it on the College premises or to be under its influence when on College premises. Pupils breaking this rule are reported to the Head of Section who will advise the Pastoral Vice Principal of the matter and a sanction issued in line with the Positive Behaviour Policy.
Pupils participating in College trips and social events organised by the College are required to conform to the rules and standards as they would if they were on College premises The consumption of alcohol is not permitted in any circumstances.
Tobacco, tobacco related products or electronic cigarettes
Pupils are not permitted to bring any tobacco related products or electronic cigarettes to school It is regarded as an offence to smoke or vape on College premises, on the way to or from the College, when in uniform or when involved in any College activity. If a member of staff finds a pupil either smoking or in possession of cigarettes or vaping equipment, the name of the pupil is noted and the matter reported as soon as possible to the relevant Head of Section who will deal with the pupil in line with the Positive Behaviour Policy
Support
Methodist College Belfast is committed to responding to drug-related incidents with fairness, consistency and a focus on both accountability and pupil welfare. The College recognises that sanctions alone are not sufficient and that supportive interventions are essential to address underlying issues and promote positive change.
The College is equally committed to supporting pupils who are involved in or at risk of drug misuse. Supportive measures may include:
ā¢ Access to counselling or pastoral support within the College.
ā¢ Referral to external agencies or specialist services for advice, intervention or treatment.
ā¢ Ongoing monitoring and mentoring to support reintegration and positive behaviour.
ā¢ Engagement with parents/guardians to ensure a coordinated approach to support and intervention.
ā¢ Education and awareness-raising to address misconceptions and promote healthy choices.
The College will work in partnership with pupils, families, and external agencies to ensure that support is tailored to individual needs and that pupils are given every opportunity to learn from their experiences and make positive changes.
Review
The policy will be formally reviewed every three years, or sooner if required by changes in legislation, guidance or school circumstances. Any significant incidents or new developments will prompt an immediate review to ensure the policy remains fit for purpose.
By regularly monitoring, evaluating and reviewing this policy, Methodist College Belfast aims to ensure a safe, supportive and proactive approach to drug education and safeguarding for all pupils.
Links to Other Policies
This policy should be read in conjunction with the following Methodist College Belfast policies and procedures, which together support the safeguarding, wellbeing and positive development of all pupils:
ā¢ Code of Conduct for Pupils
ā¢ Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
ā¢ Positive Behaviour Policy
ā¢ Health and Safety Policy
ā¢ Addressing Bullying Type Behaviour Policy
ā¢ Educational Trips and Visits Policy
Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for promoting a safe, supportive and inclusive school environment.
References
DE Circular 2015/23
DE Circular 2014/25
Drugs, Guidance for Schools NI, CCEA 2015
