Alcohol and Drug Free Policy

Adopted 17th June 2019
Next review date: December 2026 (Reviewed triennially thereafter)

Policy Statement
KingsGate School is committed to the well-being of our staff and students. We will take all reasonable steps to maintain the school as a drug, alcohol, and illegal substance-free environment.

Purpose
Create a drug and alcohol-free school environment in the interests of student health, academic success, and social cohesiveness.
Promote sound health practices, personal responsibility and well-considered lifestyle choices.
Ensure the school community is informed of KingsGate School’s Alcohol and Drug-Free Policy.
Make explicit to students and parents the disciplinary consequences of any involvement with drugs at school.
Document and inform the school community about KingsGate School’s position regarding search and seizure in relation to drug-related offences.
Document and inform students and parents concerning KingsGate School requirements for counselling for students who breach this drug-free policy.

Definition
For the purposes of this Drug-Free policy a drug is defined as tobacco, vaping, illegal drugs as listed in the Misuse of Drugs Act (such as marijuana, methamphetamine or “P”, and psychoactive substances such as “party pills”, “designer drugs”, and synthetic cannabis), inhalants (such as petrol and solvents), prescription and pharmacy-only drugs and/or medicines used outside medical or pharmaceutical advice and any other substances used for psycho-active effects.
▶Possessing and using alcohol or drugs is not permitted on school grounds at any time, nor at any school-organised trips or activities sponsored by the school.
The entire KingsGate School property is designated alcohol and drug-free. 
▶Staff at KingsGate School are not permitted to consume or be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or solvents when school is in session (including school camps) and/or when they have responsibility for students during EOTC activities. This ruling also applies to other adults taking part in any activity organised by the school.
▶Staff or students who are using medication that may impair their ability to function normally should not be at school. Prescription medicine, including Ritalin, is managed under the ‘Administration of Medicines’ procedure.
▶Any student who consumes, is affected by and/or under the influence of, or is in possession of alcohol and drugs at school will be subject to disciplinary measures that may include suspension or expulsion. 
▶‘At school’ includes travelling to and from school every day, whilst in school uniform, and/or representing the school in any school-organised trip or any other activity at which the student can be identified as a KingsGate School student. 
▶When reasonable grounds for suspicion are established, a search will be carried out according to the Ministry of Education's best practice guidelines.