STUDENTS have been disciplined or expelled by York St John University for taking drugs or legal highs, The Press can reveal today.

A Freedom of Information request found the university took action against 25 to 34 students and expelled between one and four since 2010.

York St John were unable to give precise figures because of data protection obligations linked to the Freedom of Information Act, but said of those disciplined, a number between two and eight related to drugs and legal highs.

The University of York declined a request to provide all of the figures because of time constraints but said only one student has been expelled in the last five years.

A York St John University spokeswoman said: "Since 2011/12 York St John University has enrolled more than 32,000 students. Over the same period less than five students were asked to leave the University for reasons related to drugs or legal highs.

"The University takes the issue of drugs and legal highs very seriously and when the issue arises it is dealt with appropriately.

"We have a clear code of discipline, as part of our Student Charter, which specifically notes that possession or use of drugs will be regarded as student misconduct."

Nathaniel Abakah-Phillips, president of York St John's Student Union, said: "A legal high is something which shouldn't be taken while in education or at all, and to ensure the safety of students that's the best way forward.

"We have a zero tolerance policy on drugs and substances and don't allow any to be taken.

"University is about a lot of different experiences but your personal safety is more important.

"My message to students would be to have fun but have fun safely."

For more information about drugs and their effects visit www.talktofrank.com/