BBC News On Dangers of Using Vapes

Nationally, the use of ‘vapes’ (e-cigarettes) is on the rise, and this includes teenagers (who are regarded as underage users).

We have dealt with a few students at St Mary’s in recent years who have used vapes, and we always contact parents/carers if this is the case.

A report published on 23 May 2023 by the BBC highlights huge health concerns related to use of vapes:

Vapes confiscated from school pupils contain high levels of lead, nickel and chromium, BBC News has found. Used vapes gathered at Baxter College in Kidderminster were tested in a laboratory. The results showed children using them could be inhaling more than twice the daily safe amount of lead, and nine times the safe amount of nickel. Some vapes also contained harmful chemicals like those in cigarette smoke. High levels of lead exposure in children can affect the central nervous system and brain development, according to the World Health Organization.

The full article can be read here:

Vaping: High lead and nickel found in illegal vapes

Please discuss these health issues with your child; actively encourage them not to use vapes and certainly do not support them in purchasing and using them. Vapes are a banned item and if students are found with them in school there will be a sanction applied.

Thank you for your support with this matter.