It has come to our attention that e-cigarettes have become increasingly popular and readily available in the community. Recent newspaper articles have expressed that a chorus of Principals from schools across the country are concerned about their availability to students. 

Unfortunately last week, we discovered that St Francis is not immune to this problem. Fortunately, through the diligence of our teachers and Year Coordinators and through the assistance of responsible students, we were onto the problem very quickly to minimise the risk of harm.

The College maintains a strict zero tolerance policy towards such items and their usage. I strongly recommend that all parents/carers read the information in the links below regarding e-cigarettes and vaping. In particular, I am concerned about a particular brand called Cuvie.  The products are clearly designed to attract young people and offer a variety of ‘flavours’ laced with strong quantities of nicotine and packaged in a way that they look similar to a computer USB stick.

We encourage you to have a conversation with your young person in addressing these issues.  If you have any questions or concerns, or would like further confidential support/advice, please contact the College via your son/daughter’s Year or Stage Coordinator. 

What is a “Cuvie”?

A cuvie is a disposable e-cigarette.  They are small in size (8cm x 2cm) but each Cuvie generates 300 “hits” or “puffs” per pod and costs approximately $10 - $20.

Does a Cuvie contain nicotine?

Yes - each Cuvie has 50mg of nicotine in it.  The 300 puffs equate to approximately one packet of cigarettes.  This is a concern as young people may be using these discreetly at night and unknowingly consume the equivalent of a whole packet of cigarettes.

Are they dangerous for your health?

Young people may not be aware of some of the short and long term effects of using e-cigarettes.  Research has shown that there is an increased prevalence of lung conditions such as asthma, wheezing and bronchitis.  There are also links to heart disease, stroke and reproductive issues. Even more concerning is the impact of nicotine on the developing brain.  This can affect learning, memory and attention.  Researchers also indicate the use of e-cigarettes as a young person increases chances of developing a cigarette or substance abuse problem later in life.

Are they legal?

It is illegal to sell e-cigarettes and accessories to a person under 18 years of age.  Anyone who sells cigarettes or e-cigarettes to someone under the age of 18 can be heavily fined.

What is the College Policy on e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes are a strictly prohibited item at the College and serious consequences will apply to any student(s) in possession of e-cigaretes and/or using e-cigarettes.

How are young people using e-cigarettes and hiding their behaviour?

Since many vaping devices, especially Cuvies, are inconspicuous in size and overall look, many adolescents may find it easy to hide their habits.  The vapour from the e-cigarettes is odourless (or has a sweet smell, depending on the flavour), so parents are less likely to detect an aroma.  Online purchasing appears to be one avenue that an adolescent could pursue to bypass the age limit barrier.

What should I do?

It is important that parents sit down with their young person for an open conversation about the effects of nicotine.  It is also important to encourage help-seeking behaviour.  For information and examples of how to generate a conversation around the topic, please watch SchoolTV resource from Dr Michael Carr-Gregg - School TV: e-cigarettes and Vaping.

If there are any concerns regarding your son/daughter, please contact myself, Mrs Rita Agostino (Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care) or your child’s Year/Stage Coordinator.  

For more information about the health concerns please click on the links below.

We also recommend all parents/carers access the information on the Alcohol and Drug Foundation website and additional resources below to assist you with keeping up-to-date with this important adolescent area.

Healthline- Is Vaping Bad for You?

Drugwatch- The Side Effects of e-Cigarettes

Thank you in advance for your support

Mr Simon Abernethy
College Principal