POLICE with a sniffer dog were at Churchfields Academy yesterday as part of a zero-tolerance approach to drugs.

Officers were invited to visit by the academy in order to demonstrate to pupils how they detect illegal substances.

Headteacher Steve Flavin said: “Similar operations have taken place in at least four other secondary schools in Swindon and I agree with other headteachers that this sends out a strong message to our young people about the consequences of becoming involved in substance abuse.

“The academy has gained the full support of parents for the stance that it has taken in educating young people about the dangers of getting involved with drugs.”

The operation took place between 8.15am and 9am at the academy, in Salcombe Grove, with no arrests or seizures made.

Students enjoyed meeting Griffin, the police dog. Passive drugs dogs are trained to sniff and sit when they pick up the scent of drugs rather than bark.

Mr Flavin said: “Churchfields Academy works closely with the police who are often in lessons and assemblies as part of our education programmes.  “The use of Griffin today emphasises to all of our students how serious we take this issue and today’s operation has had a huge impact on our students.

“The academy’s behaviour policy outlaws the possession and use of drugs in school and students who contravene our policy will be dealt with severely.

“This is about keeping children safe in school.”

Last February, sniffer dog Patch and his handler Steve Duffy patrolled Kingsdown School as part of a similar organised drug check.

No arrests or seizures were made during the operation, which ran as students walked into school.

In 2003, Peter Wells, the then-head of St Joseph’s School, invited police to search his school with a sniffer dog after suspending four pupils for misusing drugs.

Anyone concerned about drugs can contact the Talk to Frank drugs campaign, which has a 24-hour confidential drugs advice line available on 0800 11 66 00 or support and advice via email on frank@talktofrank.com.