- A survey by the NASUWT teachers' union found that teachers are aware of pupils using substances, including cannabis, spice, cocaine, ketamine, alcohol, nitrous oxide and nicotine pouches, on school premises.
- Nearly one in 10 teachers expressed concern about pupils smoking the synthetic cannabinoid known as spice at school, while close to one in five were aware of cannabis use.
- The union warned that the use of drugs, alcohol, and access to gambling apps are contributing to a rise in disruptive, violent, and abusive behaviour among pupils.
- The NASUWT is calling for greater government action, including a partnership approach involving schools, health, and police, and ensuring every school has access to a school-based counsellor.
- Additional concerns highlighted by the union include excessive energy drink consumption and an increase in vaping among pupils, urging a ban on high-caffeine drinks for under-16s.
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