Vape Training for Schools

Underage vaping has become a growing problem in Wales and the UK.

More and more young people are taking up vaping and for a number different reasons, from using it as a coping method, to peer pressure.

Through brightly coloured packaging and a vast range of flavours, vaping brands are appealing to younger generations, portraying vapes as modern accessories and far more than the smoking cessation tools they were first created to be.

Many young users take up vaping without fully understanding the affects they may have.

• Vapes that contain nicotine come with a high risk of nicotine addiction
• Overuse of a product can pose health risks
• Underage users are more vulnerable to illegal products which can carry higher risks to health

With a focus on prevention, our educational materials look to address deficits in knowledge for young current or would-be vapers, as well as their educators who have their pupils’ best interests at heart.

Through providing this insight, we guide young people to more self-benefiting decisions, to seek help where needed, and we encourage a supportive approach for those who already vape and may well be experiencing some level of addiction.

Using a wealth of knowledge and expertise in this field from collaborated with leading academic researchers, Public Health officials and Welsh Government to draw the best available evidence on vaping and its associated harms, we have created a support solution specific for the education sector.

This initiative has kindly been supported by the National Lottery Community Fund enabling us to offer you access to this programme free of charge. Our training package comprises the following activities which can be delivered in-person or remotely:

• 30-Minute Staff Presentation: An introductory session for up to 10 staff members, providing insights into youth vaping trends, risks, and prevention strategies.
• 1-Hour Pupil Workshop: An educational workshop for up to 30 pupils using interactive activities and discussions deepening the understanding of the consequences of vaping.

Tirion Meredith is a professionally qualified Teacher with over 13 years’ experience in High Schools and Further Education institutions across South Wales. She has been a guest lecturer at Cardiff University and has completed numerous courses over her career to increase her skills and knowledge in Education delivery. She is registered with the Education Workforce Council and has an enhanced DBS certificate.

Whilst working at ASH Wales, Tirion has developed a thorough knowledge base around vaping and has also trained in cessation. She has used all these skills to create engaging and adaptable training and is always open to creating bespoke options to suit any audience or training requirements.

To register your interest, please email Tirion.Meredith@ashwales.org.uk or complete the form below.