Primary school tells parents to stop smoking cannabis outside school gates

'We have had concerning reports that parents have been using cannabis around the school premises'

The gates to St John's C of E Primary School in Johnson Street, where parents are reported to have smoked cannabis (Google Maps)

A primary school has issued a letter threatening police action after it received reports some parents were smoking cannabis at the school gates while dropping off and picking up their children.

The deputy teacher of St John's C of E Primary School in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, said the smell had been noticed by parents and some older children.

Mrs D Binns wrote that it was a "serious safeguarding concern" and said police had been made aware of the situation.

In a letter to parents, she wrote: "We have had concerning reports that parents have been using cannabis around the school premises as they drop off and collect their children.

"This has been reported by parents and has been noticed by some of the older children."

"This is a serious safeguarding concern and if further complains are brought to our attention, we will notify the relevant authorities. We have informed the community police service and they are likely to be keeping a close eye on this situation.

"Please respect our school as a place of learning and make sure you set an appropriate example within the community."

Head teacher Jason Harvey told the Daily Mirror: "Our deputy head had a couple of concerned parents come in on Thursday morning and that’s why we sent the letter out.

"They have noticed it going on when they were bringing their children into school in the morning. We don’t know how many parents were seen using cannabis.

"We felt there was a need to send a letter to remind people that this is a place of learning and we are trying to set a good example for the children.

"We are trying to make sure that the school has a good reputation.

"There are lots of really, really great parents and we want everyone to remember that this is a school. I can’t legislate for people’s actions outside but this is a place of learning.

"There are things that are appropriate and things that aren’t."

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman confirmed its policing team will be working closely with the school and said anyone found to be engaging in such activity will be dealt with accordingly.

St John's school has been contacted for comment.