We have worked with young people to launch a youth vaping campaign.
Vapes can help adult smokers quit tobacco, however they are not harmless and there are risks for young people.
The ‘Vape Brain’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the mental health impact of nicotine dependency on young people, and the risks of buying illegal vapes.
As part of the campaign, young people have created a sculpture of a brain made from boxes of seized illegal vapes, to highlight the effect of vaping on mental health and highlight illegal vape sales. It is touring schools in Hertfordshire as an education aid and conversation starter.
Lesson resources
Vape Brain - lesson plan (PDF 115KB)
Vape Brain – student presentation (PPT 15MB)
How to book the Vape Brain sculpture for your school
Schools can email Smokefree.Hertfordshire@hertfordshire.gov.uk to enquire about availability.
Background information
Vaping – the facts: background reading to help you prepare for the lesson
More information about the campaign
Vape Brain sculpture assembly instructions (DOC 866KB)
Vape Brain website for young people: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/VapeBrain
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the Vape Brain campaign?
The campaign aims to raise awareness among young people about the mental health impacts of nicotine addiction, as well as the risks associated with illegal and unregulated vapes. The “Vape Brain” sculpture acts as a visual prompt for discussion, helping schools engage students in conversations about vaping.
Who is the lesson designed for?
The materials are suitable for pupils in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. Schools are encouraged to deliver the lesson to every year group while the sculpture is visiting in either PSHE or form time.
Do we need the Vape Brain sculpture to deliver the lesson?
No. The lesson plan, presentation and supporting resources can be used independently. The sculpture is an added engagement tool, but not essential.
How long does the lesson take to deliver?
The lesson is designed to fit within a 45–60 minute slot but can be adapted for shorter form time sessions if needed.
What equipment or preparation do teachers need?
You’ll need:
- Access to the student presentation (PPT)
- A copy of the lesson plan (PDF)
- A screen or projector
- Optional: background reading document for teacher preparation
No specialist knowledge is required.
Are the teaching materials mapped to the curriculum?
Yes. The lesson supports PSHE education outcomes including mental health, risk taking behaviours, and decision-making. It also aligns with RSHE statutory guidance around teaching about drugs, nicotine and harmful substances.
Can we adapt the materials for our school’s needs?
Yes. Schools are welcome to tailor the slides or lesson flow to fit their cohort, timetable or pastoral approach. Please keep the core campaign messages intact.
How can we give feedback on how the lesson went?
Feedback helps improve future resources. Teachers can:
- complete the staff feedback form - Youth vaping school survey
- encourage students to complete the survey linked at the end of the presentation
Are additional resources available for parents or carers?
The youth-facing Vape Brain webpage includes information suitable for sharing with families: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/VapeBrain
Further materials and information are being planned.
Communications toolkit
Young person facing articles: