In November, BBC South east contacted the College regarding an investigative piece of journalism they were undertaking about vaping in schools. Concerned by the increased reports of the increased availability of vapes and impact on health for young people they asked if we would be willing to help them.
Headteacher, Caroline Barlow contacted other headteachers in the local area and collated the feedback regarding the picture in schools across East Sussex. This was then shared with the reporters to add detail and examples to their report.
The final report can be seen here:
However they also wanted a student perspective and to help therefore, the Lead Team stepped in to speak to the reporters during a visit to the College. It is interesting to note that the experiences and evidence provided by our students was not included in the final piece. It did not match the story being told or the experiences in other schools in many ways, it is however no less valid as their view and experience. We made an effort to reclaim the footage and have included it here so you can share in our pride of Heathfield students and how they both represent themselves and also in their understanding of the extensive education they receive here at College that helps inform the healthy choices they make.
It remains the case at College that this is a no smoking site. There is a zero tolerance approach for consistency: we treat all tobacco related products (including vapes) as a banned substance; the possession and/or use on the College site of these items is consistent with the Behaviour Policy and will not be tolerated.