A drug education programme for early secondary schools

Abstract

A Drug Prevention Programme presented within a cross-curricular theme is intended to ensure that pupils experience a coherent health education programme which encourages them to establish healthy patterns of behaviour. By gaining knowledge, increasing understanding and by acquiring and developing essential life skills they will be better placed to make informed; positive, healthy choices. The knowledge presented in this programme entails various aspects of drug education. It help students to realise that all substances can be harmful if not used properly; know that there are over-the-counter, prescribed, legal and illegal substances and have some understanding of their effects; know how to make simple choices and exercise some basic techniques for resisting pressure from friends and others; recognise personal responsibility for decisions about substance use; explore the historical, cultural, political, social and economic factors relating to the production, distribution and use of drugs world-wide; discuss the role of media in influencing attitudes towards drugs, particularly smoking and alcohol.