Principals want the power to search students for weapons and drugs this year.

Thousands of students are heading back to school this week.

President of the Secondary Schools Principals Association Patrick Walsh says guidelines were developed last year, but he wants the Education Act changed.

"Two give schools specifically the power of search and seizure, issues around weapons in schools and students bringing in drugs in schools are not going away and we believe that would act as an important deterrent."

Mr Walsh says believes they can maintain the rights of students against blanket searches.

Principals are also hoping to see developments in the area of technology in schools this year.

Mr Walsh, says ultra-fast broad band has been rolled out in many schools.

But he says it won't be fully utilised unless there's the technology in schools to make use of it.

"We need to be in discussion with the Government and also with parents about such things as iPads and laptops, who's going to pay for those and the best use of them in the school environment."

He says laptops and iPads are the new text book and pencil case.

Meanwhile police are warning motorists to take care this week as thousands of students head back to school.

Wellington District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Peter Baird, says all motorists should be prepared for some congestion around schools this week as they head to work.

He says people need to be patient and exercise their common sense.

Police are asking road users to adhere to a slower speed tolerance near schools to ensure children get to class safely.

Photo: NZ Herald