About This Article
Zoom Testing has supplied drug testing kits to UK customers for nearly 20 years. This guide draws on our experience helping thousands of parents, educators, and schools understand drug testing, safeguarding, and early intervention. Always follow current UK legislation regarding drug testing in educational settings.
Published: February 10,2019 | Last Updated: November 16, 2025 | By Anthony Cunningham
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How Drugs and Alcohol Are Affecting Students in Shocking Numbers
According to our Government, every child deserves to have access to a safe school environment where they can learn without disruption. However, new statistics reveal that a record number of suspensions were issued to school students for alcohol and drug-related issues. The figures show that students are being suspended for issues relating to alcohol and drugs at the fastest rate in almost 10 years. Every day, around 50 students are sent home from school for bringing illegal substances into playgrounds, turning up to school high, or trying to deal illegal drugs to their classmates.
The Scale of the Problem
Drug and alcohol misuse amongst young people in the UK has become increasingly concerning. Recent data shows that substance abuse is affecting students at higher rates than ever, with new statistics from the Department of Education revealing troubling trends in how many young people are struggling with addiction and dependency. This rise in youth substance misuse has prompted many schools and parents to seek practical solutions, including school drug prevention products designed to support early intervention and safeguarding.
Understanding the scale of this issue is essential for parents, educators, and policymakers. Schools across England have increasingly adopted harm reduction and early intervention strategies, many of which include simple and practical testing options to identify substance misuse early.
UK School Suspensions and Expulsions
The data from recent academic years paints a concerning picture of drug and alcohol misuse in UK schools.
Key Statistics (2016/17 Academic Year)
- There were almost 9,000 instances in England where students were temporarily removed from school for breaching alcohol, drug, and cigarette rules.
- This figure is up almost 30% from the 2012/13 school year, making it the highest figure for eight years.
- 565 pupils were permanently expelled for serious drug and alcohol-related offences.
- The academic year consists of 190 days, meaning three students were permanently expelled every day.
- 47 children were suspended every day for breaking alcohol and drug rules.
More worryingly, the latest figures reveal there’s been a sharp increase in alcohol and drug offences amongst students aged 12 years and above. The data also includes students who were discovered to be abusing prescription drugs, and were therefore unable to study. These figures from the Department of Education agree with a recent survey of police forces conducted by the Freedom of Information Act, which determined that every week, approximately 30 students are arrested on suspected illegal drug dealings.
And it stands to reason that a certain percentage of drug abuse in our schools goes undetected, thus contributing to violence and disorder. Sadly, these figures as stated do not show the true state of alcohol and drug abuse in our schools, and the real figures are likely to be much higher.
Why Early Testing Matters
Early identification of substance misuse is crucial for supporting young people and protecting school environments. Testing serves multiple purposes: it can act as a deterrent, provide evidence for safeguarding discussions, and most importantly, it creates an opportunity for early intervention and support.
Supporting School Safeguarding
According to UK Government guidance on drugs and parents, schools have a duty of care to provide a safe environment. Many schools now use drug testing as part of their safeguarding policies, working alongside support services to help students who may be struggling with substance misuse. This approach aligns with current ACAS workplace guidance on testing protocols and confidentiality.
Peace of Mind for Parents
Parents often feel concerned about their child’s wellbeing and peer groups. Home testing kits provide a practical way to open conversations about substance use and support young people in making safe choices. For parents worried about synthetic cannabinoids and other emerging drugs, simple testing can provide reassurance and evidence to support early intervention conversations.
Testing Methods for Schools and Parents
Several types of drug and alcohol tests are available for schools and parents:
Urine Drug Tests
Multi-drug urine testing kits are the most commonly used method in schools. They are reliable, quick, and can detect multiple substances simultaneously. These tests are particularly useful for identifying common drugs including cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids.
Saliva Tests
Saliva-based alcohol and drug tests are less invasive and can be administered quickly without special facilities. These are increasingly popular in school settings because they’re discreet, non-invasive, and provide rapid results.
Detection Windows
Different substances remain detectable in urine, saliva, and blood for different lengths of time. Understanding these detection windows is important for schools and parents planning testing strategies. DrugWise, the UK’s independent drug information charity, provides comprehensive guidance on substance detection times and testing protocols.
Multi-drug testing kits like these are quick, reliable, and trusted by parents and educators across the UK.
What Customers Say
Parents and educators have found testing kits invaluable for supporting young people and providing peace of mind:
“These tests were spot on with my son, worked well and very easy to do.”
— Emma P
“With the problems with drug taking in schools, this is a great tool in helping parents. It was very helpful in helping my son stop taking drugs.”
— Jonathan F
“I was worried about my son who had been smoking cannabis. The test was simple to use and I now have peace of mind knowing that he is no longer using the drug. Also allowed me to confirm that he was not using anything else. Good deterrent too, as he knows that he can be tested at any time.”
— Tina
What Parents and Schools Can Do
For Parents
- Start conversations early about substance misuse and the risks associated with drugs and alcohol.
- Consider home testing as a non-judgmental way to open dialogue and support your child.
- Work with your school to understand their drug and alcohol policies.
- Seek support from harm reduction services like Talk to Frank if you’re concerned about your child’s substance use.
For Schools
- Implement clear drug and alcohol policies in line with safeguarding requirements.
- Ensure staff training on recognising substance misuse and supporting affected students.
- Link testing with support services rather than purely punitive measures.
- Consult school counsellors, local authorities, and health services when developing testing protocols.
Concerned About Drug Use in Schools? Discover Zoom Testing’s kits trusted by parents and educators across the UK. Whether for home use or school-based support, we provide reliable testing solutions designed to help.
Supporting Young People Through Testing
The figures on drug and alcohol suspensions in UK schools are stark and concerning. Yet there are practical steps parents, educators, and schools can take to address this issue. Early testing, combined with compassionate support, education, and intervention, creates the foundation for helping young people make safe choices and supporting those who may be struggling.
If you’re a parent worried about your child or a school looking to implement safeguarding strategies, testing kits offer a simple, non-invasive way to take action. Combined with proper support systems, education, and guidance from harm reduction specialists, testing can be a valuable tool in protecting young people and creating safer school environments.
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham – Drug Testing Expert & Editor
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based drug testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Testing, a trusted source for accurate drug testing kits and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using UK legislation, workplace compliance standards, and harm reduction best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by testing specialists and compliance professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
