Free anti-vaping resources launched for schools

A set of free educational resources designed to teach primary school children about the risks of vaping has been launched following a trial at several schools.

The materials were piloted across nine Dorset schools and developed over 18 months alongside NHS anti-vaping work in Scotland.

Created by the youth charity Talk About Trust, the resources are aimed at pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 and include games, lesson plans, activities and guidance for teachers.

The programme is designed to help children better understand vaping, nicotine and the dangers they present before they reach secondary school.

Gary Spracklen, headteacher at The Prince of Wales School in Dorchester and a member of the vaping working group, said he was "really impressed" by the breadth of the resources.

"It ensures that pupils not only gain factual knowledge but also develop critical thinking skills, resilience and strategies to make healthy choices," he said.

"I particularly value the attention given to safeguarding considerations and signposting to support, which will be crucial in ensuring sensitive delivery in classrooms'.

Talk About Trust said all activities had been tested by pupils and shaped by teachers and school leaders during the pilot process.

Free staff training is also being offered to help schools deliver the resources.

The materials are now available for schools to download and use.