From the Leadership Team

Empowering Young People Through Education: Supporting Safe Choices Around Drugs and Alcohol 

As educators, one of our greatest hopes is that our students grow into confident, responsible individuals who make wise decisions, especially when it comes to challenging issues like drugs and alcohol. Adolescence is a time of exploration and growth, but it can also be a period of vulnerability. That’s why education plays such a vital role in helping young people navigate these complex topics with clarity and confidence. 

At the heart of effective drug and alcohol education is the belief that knowledge empowers. When students are provided with accurate, age-appropriate information, they are better equipped to make informed choices, not just for themselves, but for their peers as well.  

Paul Dillon, and his organisation, DARTA (Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia), are leading the way in delivering engaging, evidence-based education to school communities across Australia and New Zealand. 

Endeavour College is proud to have a long association with Paul, and his visit this week marked the 16th time he has presented to our Year 10, 11 and 12 students. His work helps demystify the risks associated with substance use and provides practical strategies for staying safe. 

Importantly, education isn’t just about facts and figures. It’s about fostering critical thinking, building resilience, and encouraging open conversations. When young people understand the real-world consequences of drug and alcohol use, such as impaired judgment, health risks, and legal implications, they’re more likely to pause and consider their actions. 

They also learn how to support friends in difficult situations, such as recognising when someone may need medical help or knowing how to respond during a crisis. 

Here is some feedback from our Year 11s: 

"Paul Dillon's presentation was compelling and humorous. He broke down the real dangers of alcohol and vaping in a way that was honest, relatable, and impossible to ignore. His mix of humour and straight facts made it clear how important it is to make smart choices." 

Adam Azmarli - Mackillop N 

“Paul presented valuable information regarding how to help drunk people and the truth of vaping in a very fun and engaging way, and the main thing I took away was the importance of water time!” 

Samantha Perryman - Mackillop S 

"I found Paul Dillon's session exceptionally enlightening. His insights underscored the critical importance of knowing how to care for both yourself and those around you, especially in situations where informed decisions can make a real difference. The session not only deepened my understanding but also reinforced the value of proactive, compassionate support within our community." 

Olivia Vasilev - Mitchell S 

As parents, you play a crucial role in reinforcing these messages at home. Creating a safe space for honest dialogue, without judgment or fear, can make all the difference. 

Ask your teen what they’ve learned in school, share your own experiences, and listen with empathy. These conversations help build trust and show your child that you’re a reliable source of support. 

It’s also important to remember that education is ongoing. The landscape of substance use is constantly evolving, with new trends and challenges emerging all the time. 

Staying informed through reputable sources like DARTA’s blogs and resources can help you stay ahead of the curve and provide timely guidance to your child. 

Ultimately, the goal is not to shield young people from every risk, but to prepare them to face those risks with confidence and care. 

By investing in quality education and nurturing strong relationships at school and at home, we give our children the tools they need to make safe, thoughtful decisions, now and into the future. 

If you’re looking for more information or support, DARTA offers a range of resources for parents, carers, and educators. Their digital cards, blogs, and videos are designed to be practical, accessible, and grounded in real-life scenarios. Together, we can help our young people thrive. One informed decision at a time.

Michael Vickery 

Head of Senior School