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The Diageo Action Against Misuse of Alcohol Project Award
Dixons City Academy
“Drugs Peer Education”
Headteacher: Nick Weller
Sponsored by Diageo
Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business with brands including Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, Baileys and Gordon’s gin. Diageo is a member of The Portman Group, supports The Drinkaware Trust and is delighted to sponsor the Action Against Misuse of Alcohol Project Award.
Rebecca Perry, CSR and communications manager of Diageo GB, said: “We believe that better education and early intervention is the most effective way of changing young people’s perceptions of alcohol and improving their understanding of the effects of irresponsible drinking. Local initiatives, created for young people, can really make a difference among the at-risk groups where support is needed most.”
Jeanette Craig (centre) accepts The Diageo Action Against Misuse Of Alcohol Project Award on behalf of Dixons City Academy from Gordon Valentine representing The Police Community Clubs Of Great Britain and Esther Rantzen CBE.
“I believe that students take advice more readily from peers than they would an adult,” said Jackie Abbott who nominated this project.
With this in mind, a project was developed where students in year 8 would benefit from a different angle on drugs and alcohol education by allowing year 12 students to deliver lessons instead of their form tutor. This would result in a more fun based, interactive learning experience.
The project takes place on a yearly basis with year 12 students receiving two days training at Education Bradford during the Autumn term then have in house planning sessions prior to Christmas. The students plan their lessons and practice delivery before they are then placed into a class, teaching and informing year 8 students over a term.
Twelve students from year 12 took part in the project which saw activities such as wearing “beer goggles” teaching the dangers of being drunk and placebo drug kits to help educate their peers. Year 8 students were also taught the recovery position and what action to take in an emergency.
Year 12 students were given the opportunity to develop their knowledge and gain self confidence and awareness through teaching to their peers. Students in year 8 benefited from having sessions led by new faces and people closer to their age group using fun resources to deliver the message.
The project has been in existence for 10 years and there are plans to expand the delivery of the project through linking up with primary schools based in the local community.
Finalist
Hagley High School - Worcestershire
Headteacher: Ted Hammond
“Alcohol Awareness”
