Parents have been asked not to send their primary school-aged pupils to class smelling of cannabis.
The headteacher of an infant school has sent a warning to all parents reminding them that cannabis is illegal in the UK, and children should not arrive with their clothes or bags smelling of the drug.
According to the Lancashire Telegraph, Andrea Batley has now told parents any future incidents will be reported to police and social services.
Ms Batley issued the warning in the October issue of the newsletter for parents and carers at Longshaw Community Infant School in Blackburn.
Her message reads: “Cannabis remains an illegal drug in the UK and therefore children’s clothing and book bags should not smell of this substance.
“We have had a growing number of reports from staff regarding this issue and therefore we are in the process of developing a policy which will note when children’s clothing or possessions smell of cannabis and the school’s legal duty to inform other agencies.”
Local councillor Maureen Bateson told the Lancashire Telegraph: “Inhaling cannabis fumes could have a serious effect on the children’s health and particularly their mental health.
“I would fully support the families involved being reported to the police and social services.”
Headteacher Mrs Batley added: “We will be reporting any incidents to the police and children’s social care where necessary to protect our children from the harmful impacts of second-hand smoke and exposure to illegal substances. Unfortunately this is not something unique to this school.
“We know other schools across the country have taken similar approaches.”
She said: “It is completely unacceptable and not fair on the children to come to school with their book bag and clothing smelling of cannabis.
A police spokesman said they would take appropriate action.
source: GimbsyLive
