Facts. A teacher searches Leo's bag after a tip-off and finds a small amount of cannabis.
What the law says. The same possession offence applies, but the adult cannabis warning does not apply to under-18s.[13] Under DfE guidance (2022), schools may search without consent where there are reasonable grounds. Controlled drugs "must be delivered to the police as soon as possible unless there is a good reason to dispose of them", and "legally, schools do not have to give the name of the pupil" to police, considering this "on a case-by-case basis".[30][31] The school can apply its behaviour policy, including suspension or exclusion.
| If… | Then… |
|---|---|
| First time, small amount, engages with support | School sanction ± community resolution or Outcome 22 (no criminal record; Youth Justice Service intervention) |
| Admits; second incident | Youth caution (decided with the YJS) |
| Further incidents | Youth conditional caution → charge → youth court (referral order likely on first conviction [unverified]) |
| Signs he was selling or carrying for others | Safeguarding and exploitation assessment (Scenario 4) |
Record. Outcome 22 "does not result in a criminal record... This is not a conviction or a caution", and needs no admission.[25][32] Youth cautions are not automatically disclosed on standard or enhanced DBS checks.[33][34]
Rights and help. In a police interview Leo must have an appropriate adult and is entitled to a free solicitor. Childline (0800 1111); FRANK; the school's designated safeguarding lead.