Rationale

This drug education statement provides a framework for addressing drug education priorities highlighted in the school needs assessment. The statement has been developed in consultation with staff, students and parents and has been endorsed by the School Council and Parents and Citizens Association.

This statement aims to:

· Support the development of a whole school drug education program;

· Develop and maintain a health-promoting and supportive school environment in which the welfare of all school community members is considered

· Involve the school community in the planning and delivery of the program

· Document the school position on and accepted procedures for drug referral, counselling and managing drug-related incidents

· Inform all members of the school community that the statement applies to students, parents, staff, volunteer staff, other workers and school visitors whilst they are on school premises, on a school excursion or at a school functions where students are present

· Link the drug education program to the school’s Code of School Behaviour.

Drug Education Program

Drug education is taught in the context of the school’s health programs, policies and procedures and focuses on the Years 1-10 Health and Physical Education syllabus core learning outcomes that relate to drug education. The program incorporates a balance of knowledge acquisition, values clarification and skill development appropriate to the development level of students. The program also has the sequence and progression across all year levels as evidenced in the Year 8 RAP Programme, Years 9 – 12 Health and Physical Education units and additional Relationships Education Workshops. The inclusion of Drug Education across all curriculum areas has been mapped.

Counselling and Referrals

Students and their families will receive confidential assistance and support in relation to drug issues. Students will be referred to the Guidance Officer or support agency so counselling can be followed through until the issue is resolved satisfactorily or further arrangements are made in accordance with the wishes of the family.

The drug education program is enhanced by input from the following agencies and programs:

Child and Youth Mental Health

Wahroonga Community Service

The following personnel are useful contacts for student support:

ATODs, Queensland Health, Queensland Aboriginal Health, Bidgerdii

Child Protection and Investigation Unit

Queensland Ambulance Service

Managing Drug Related Incidents

Unlawful drug use and possession at school will be managed according to the procedures outlined in the school’s behaviour management plan. Any disclosure about drug use or possession will be conveyed to the appropriate school personnel and acted upon.