Please see useful information on the vaping issue - https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/tobaccocontrol/resources/information-and-guidance-on-e-cigarettes-and-vaping-for-schools.pdf:

·         HSE animated 5 minute video for student and staff on vaping https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJwhcGAuZC4

·        What are e-cigarettes?

1.       E-cigarettes are electronic devices that produce an aerosol by heating a liquid (often called ‘e-liquid’).

2.       This e-liquid usually contains nicotine, which is an addictive drug found in regular cigarettes and other tobacco products. T

3.       The e-liquid used in e-cigarettes also contains flavourings and other chemicals. Users breathe this aerosol into their lungs. This is commonly referred to as ‘vaping’. Anyone who is near a person who is vaping also breathes in this aerosol.

4.       E-cigarettes can also be used to vape cannabis and marijuana. E-cigarettes are known by many different names.

5.       They are sometimes called ‘e-cigs’, ‘vapes’, ‘vape pens’, ‘tanks’ and ‘electronic nicotine delivery systems’.

·         What are the health risks of vaping?

We are still learning about the long-term health effects of vaping. Here is what we know now.

1.       You can become addicted to nicotine in vapes

2.       Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and leads to dependence.

3.       Nicotine can also train the brain to be more easily addicted to other drugs like cocaine.

4.       Children and young people are especially vulnerable to the effects of nicotine as their brains are still developing.

5.       Children and young people who vape are likely to become addicted to nicotine, develop mood disorders and find it hard to control their impulses.

There are physical side effects

6.       Nicotine addiction happens very quickly and the risk of long-term addiction is very high.

7.       Nicotine also has physical effects on the body. People who vape may experience any combination of:

• Nausea • Diarrhoea • A rapid pulse • Fainting  • Anxiety • Vomiting • Cold, clammy skin • Dizziness • Headache

8.       You can suffer from nicotine withdrawal

People may also experience nicotine withdrawal when they stop vaping or in situations or places where they cannot vape.  Common symptoms of withdrawal include:

• Anger, frustration and irritability

• Difficulty concentrating and studying

• Feeling tired or groggy

• Having trouble sleeping

The HSE does not recommend using e-cigarettes as a stop smoking aid. We advise anyone who wants to stop smoking to use evidence-based medications (medications that are safe and that we know can work well). 

Reminder:

An information presentation for families of students coming in to First Year in 2024/2025 will be held tomorrow  in the school.

Your child will be offered a tour of our school and they will be given an opportunity to ask any questions they may have. We will also host a question and answer session for parents which will hopefully serve to alleviate any concerns you may be having regarding your child’s transition to our school.

 Timetable of Events: 1.40 – 2.30: Incoming students 2.00 – 2.30: Parents/Guardians

Please note that it is the responsibility of parents/guardians to bring their child to and from this event.