BACKGROUND-AIM:
Nicotine use is more common among vocational college students in Finland than among general upper‑secondary students. Despite legal bans, the implementation of nicotine‑free policies varies, and staff commitment to the rules is inconsistent. The aim was to develop and implement a long‑term, structurally integrated model that strengthens staff competence, clarifies procedures, and supports students in making nicotine‑free choices.

METHODS:
The model was developed using service design, social marketing, and the Behaviour Change Wheel. A baseline survey (interviews, observations, document reviews) was conducted with 75 participants. Through workshops and co‑creation sessions, staff, students, and stakeholders jointly shaped the model, which was piloted in one vocational college before national roll‑out. During implementation, colleges follow a three‑step process: start‑up assessment, implementation of selected measures, and evaluation.

RESULTS:
The pilot strengthened guidelines and improved staff capability to address nicotine use. Over 90% of staff recognised their role in promoting nicotine‑free behaviour, and 80% of students felt encouraged by staff to make nicotine‑free choices. A cultural shift toward consistent, health‑promoting practices emerged. From 2021–2025, 11 colleges adopted the model. Policies were updated, staff received training, and student‑driven activities were carried out. Embedding the model typically required 1–2 years, resulting in clearer practices, improved staff capabilities, and broader support for wellbeing promotion.

CONCLUSIONS:
The model supports whole‑institution cultural change. It strengthens structures, unifies practices, and empowers staff and students to promote nicotine‑free behaviour across Finnish vocational colleges. School-based smoking and vaping prevention; One Health Education; community engagement