This information provides guidance to principals regarding the implementation of drug education and intervention programs in schools.
Schools are responsible for teaching young people about the harmful effects of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use as a key preventative measure in the ongoing effort to address drug-related harm.
The department, in conjunction with the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority, has developed the
Alcohol and other drugs education program to support schools.
State school principals make decisions regarding how the program is implemented in their context.
Specialist resources available for state schools via QLearn.
When planning for your school:
- consider
public health and safety messages regarding alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug consumption
- incorporate statements about drug education into long term planning and reporting processes
- inform the school community of drug education programs and procedures in a culturally sensitive manner
- include information regarding unlawful drug use and possession not being acceptable
- provide professional development opportunities that assist teachers to achieve drug-related educational outcomes within the fundamental principle of harm minimisation as endorsed by the Queensland Government.
Drug intervention measures
In response to drug-related incidents in schools, a school makes decisions regarding responses and consequences in line with their Student Code of Conduct.
In developing responses to drug-related incidents:
- follow processes outlined in the Temporary removal of student property procedure
- implement a range of responses taking into account the
- nature of the incident
- circumstances of the student(s) involved, including relevant age, development, gender, cultural and social considerations
- needs and safety of others in the school
- communicate to all school staff the acceptable process to follow if students are found to be in possession of alcohol, tobacco, illicit substances and unsanctioned prescription medication
- inform local police when an illicit substance is found by school staff and arrange for police to collect the substance as soon as possible
- consider the role of the parent in managing action and follow-up in regard to a drug-related incident
- assess the need for referral to other agencies and establish protocols with relevant professionals and agencies to provide
- professional development for school staff
- advice and resources for school staff, parents and students
- medical assessment
- counselling and rehabilitation services for students involved with illicit and other unsanctioned drugs
- ensure confidential records of drug-related incidents at school are maintained to support monitoring and evaluation of intervention policies and procedures.
Online resources