Schools in England receive drugs guidance

Every school in England is being sent new guidelines for dealing with drugs, the government has announced.

The guidance outlines a range of options available to headtachers, including expulsion and drug testing. But it states that parents, pupils and governors should be consulted before implementing such measures.

Schools Minister Stephen Twigg said the government is committed to a "zero tolerance policy" towards drugs in schools.

"We believe that headteachers should have every tool in the box when it comes to drug education and prevention, and the guidance issued today gives clear advice on the best ways to deal with any issue around drugs," he said.

Pupils vulnerable to drug misuse should be identified and given support, says the guidance. It also states that all schools should have an overall drug policy for educating pupils and managing drugs incidents – and teachers should receive drug awareness training.

The guidance was written after extensive consultation with teachers, local education authorities, drug education specialists, police and pupils.

(gmcg)