Celebrations, partying and socialising are a fundamental rite of passage and one of the most important aspects of a young person’s life. Although the prospect might seem somewhat daunting or even terrifying for parents and caregivers, keeping young people safe can often be a compromise and a challenge.
Vaping is a new trend amongst adolescents that most parents know little about and as we approach the end of the school year when celebratory parties are being planned, it is important to educate our young people and their families about drug and alcohol consumption.
This week, we had the privilege of hosting renowned speaker Paul Dillon from Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA), who shared his valuable insights and experiences with our senior students, addressing topics such as vaping, alcohol, risk-taking and the importance of looking after your mates.
Paul is a respected figure in the field of education and youth development with almost three decades of experience in drug education. As an author, speaker and educator, Paul has dedicated his career to supporting young people as they navigate the complexities of adolescence.
Through his own business, DARTA, he has been contracted by many agencies and organisations across the country to give regular updates on current drug trends within the community. He continues to work with many school communities across the country to ensure they have access to quality information and best-practice drug education.
During the workshop, Paul empowered students with the knowledge and skills to make informed and responsible decisions. He emphasised the importance of resilience and coping mechanisms, offering practical strategies for managing stress and peer pressure, which are crucial skills as they approach celebratory events and parties.
The workshop forms an integral part of our school’s well-being program designed to promote health, build resilience, enhance academic care and foster positive relationships. Paul’s messages about the importance of collaboration between students, parents and educators united our school community and we remain committed to building a safer and more informed environment for our young people.
Thank you, Paul, for your invaluable contribution to our community. We look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
For more information, visit the DARTA Website.
