SCHOOLS are being urged to take action to prevent pupils 'vaping' behind the bike sheds.
The Department of Education has issued a circular proposing an outright ban on the use of electronic cigarettes in schools and youth premises.
There have been bans in schools in England, the US and Canada following a rise in e-cigarette use among young people - with some pupils even using them in the classroom.
It has not been a major issue for schools. However, the chief medical officer (CMO)
Dr Michael McBride has written to the department to advise that the use of e-cigarettes on school premises should be prohibited, in line with tobacco products. Electronic cigarettes do not contain tobacco or produce smoke, but use nicotine from tobacco plants.
Dr McBride said nicotine is very addictive and, through e-cigarettes, had the potential to act as a gateway into tobacco smoking.
In addition, he said there was evidence to suggest that adolescent exposure to nicotine may have long-term consequences for brain development.
In its circular to schools, the department said children are more likely to become smokers if parents or friends smoke, or if they are exposed to role models who smoke. "In order to set an appropriate example for our young people, it is important that schools and the youth service are completely smoke free and e-cigarette free environments," the guidance reads. "Reflecting the advice of the CMO, the department, therefore, encourages principals, boards of governors, youth leaders and management of youth organisations to take a lead role by ensuring that children and young people within their care are educated and developed within a completely smoke free and e-cigarette free environment."