It is important that young people know about the issues surrounding drug use. It is also important for teaching staff to understand how to identify when one of their students is under the influence of some drug. This is where DARCON Training can help.
The Drug Education Forum published a 'Guidance for Schools' briefing paper in 2004 after the Department of Education & Skills released new guidance for schools about drugs. Apart from these documents discussing the aims of drug education for children, it also makes reference to the education of teachers in schools, This guidance usefully identifies 5 points for drug education training in schools: -
1. All schools should have a drug education programme
2. All schools should have a drug policy developed in consultation with the whole school community
3. All schools should have a range or responses and procedures for managing drug incidents
4. All staff should receive drug awareness training, have a role in implementing the drug policy and have access to continual professional development.
5. Schools should ensure that pupils vulnerable to drug misuse are identified and receive appropriate support
We are able to supply training to teachers and support staff in the identification of drug use including the signs and symptoms of drug abuse, behavioural changes in pupils and the paraphernalia which may be used or found in the school grounds. This training can be delivered either within or outside curriculum time, over an extended period or as one developed training course.
DARCON recognises that all schools have different problems and priorities, therefore any training we are invited to deliver will be developed specifically for the needs of your school.
It is unfortunate that drug use in schools is a growing problem and the implications of such drug use by young people cannot be overlooked. It is therefore important that as many of your staff are aware of the issues surrounding the use of drugs (including alcohol) in your school.
CONTACT US NOW FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW WE MAY HELP
Drug use and school children
Drug use in schools is a growing problem, Research has shown that many school children ranging from 11 - 18yrs use, or have experimented with, drugs on a regular basis.
29% of 15 - 24yr olds have taken drugs
13% of 11 - 15yr olds took Cannabis last year
15% of 12 - 16yr olds use Solvents
6% of 11 years olds use a solvent regulalry
10% of 18 yr olds used Cocaine last month
15% of 18 yr olds used Ecstasy last month
The lifetime prevalence of illegal drug use among the school populus is 27% and 12% per month
