Drugs Policy
Rationale
The aim of drugs education is to enable pupils to make healthy, informed choices. ?Drugs? is defined as any chemical substance that brings about a change in a person?s emotional state, body functioning and behaviour. By definition caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and prescribed medicines, solvents and illegal drugs are all contained within the spectrum of substances known as drugs.For the purpose of this document, the term ?drugs? will be used to describe substances, which interfere with the pupil?s ability to learn, are potentially harmful, or are capable of misuse, including some whose possession and use are illegal. Back to top
Purposes
1. Increasing knowledge, changing attitudes and enhancing skills? To provide opportunities for pupils to acquire knowledge and understanding about the dangers of drug misuse and to develop the attitudes and skills they need to avoid the misuse of drugs.
? To increase knowledge of social and personal issues relating to drugs.
2. Behaviour
? To minimise the number of young people who ever engage in drug misuse.
? To delay the age of onset of first use for those who do experiment at any time.
? To persuade those who are experimenting with or misusing drugs to stop and seek help. Back to top
Guidelines
Drug Education is provided in the broader context of the teaching of health and personal and social education as part of a pupil?s life skills and preparation for adulthood.? It aims to involve parents and encourage them to take an interest.
? It is delivered in the context of the school as part of the community.
? It takes account of the age, sex, and cultural/social background of the pupils.
? It takes account of the local circumstances and culture of the community.
? It provides factual and accurate information backed up with consistent advice. Back to top
Methods
Drugs education is delivered in a clear and honest manner, within the context of healthy behaviour and starting from the concept of drugs as medicines, safe and unsafe substances at KS1, going on to encompass tobacco and alcohol by the end of KS2.. Our approach encourages active pupil participation and is provided at regular intervals to maximise its effectiveness, often during relevant topics such as ?Myself?. There is a blocked unit every other year in upper and lower KS2 classes. It is evaluated, and backed up by advice or help for pupils with problems or concerns. A range of resources and input, including ?Health for Life? and invited visitors is used. Individual advice is not appropriate, but the provision of information about other sources of help, advice and support is.Unconditional confidentiality cannot be promised. If a member of staff suspects a pupil is in moral or physical danger, they should pass that information on to a senior or delegated member of staff.
Policy reviewed by co-ordinator June 2004 Back to top