Developing a Smokefree/Auahi Kore Policy

Background

Smokefree/Auahi Kore policies and procedures are necessary in meeting National Administration Guideline 5, which covers health and safety issues.

Smokefree/Auahi Kore school/kura policies have been proven to reduce student smoking when they are comprehensive and well implemented.1 Evidence also suggests the social and cultural aspects of a school community can help young people remain smokefree.

Structure of Policy

We recommend schools/kura develop a comprehensive Smokefree/Auahi Kore policy separate to other policies such as health or safety because the issue is covered by separate legislation. The policy should use a 'whole-of-school' approach and include:

• purpose/rationale – including aims and importance
• how the Smoke-free Environments Amendment Act (2003) applies
• the intervention process when students smoke at school
• communicating with the school community
• assistance and referral for those in the school community who smoke
• author, consultation process, date of creation and review date.

Whole-of-School Approach

By working together, parents, whānau and staff can gain a shared understanding of how to increase young people's chances of remaining smokefree for life. A Smokefree/Auahi Kore policy works best when it recognises the unique culture and needs of the individual school/kura and when parents and students have input into its development.

Policy Templates

Two policy templates are available here. They can be adapted for individual use.

Policy Template 1 ( 69Kb)                Policy Template 2 ( 65Kb) 

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1. Evans-Whipp T, Beyers JM, et al. A review of school drug policies and their impact on youth substance use. Health Promotion International 2004; 19: 227-234.