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 young people who can make safe and thoughtful decisions when faced with complex issues such as drugs and alcohol.
Adolescence is a time of exploration and growth, but it can also be a period of vulnerability. This is why clear, evidence-based education is so important: when students receive accurate, age-appropriate information, they are better equipped to make informed choices for themselves and to support their peers.
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 17th 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. The following reflections from students show the impact of Paul’s message and the practical value they took from the session:
Paul Dillon's presentation was insightful, and it has given great guidance for the Year 10 cohort as to how we can protect and help each other when there is alcohol or drugs involved. We greatly thank Paul as he taught us new things which we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.
Rhoda Ghebrenegus , Year 10
Paul Dillion presented us with deeply valuable information and actionable advice presented in an engaging way. We now feel prepared to safely navigate future situations whilst looking after ourselves and others. These presentations have been a highlight of our senior years' experience at Endeavour.
Justin Tran & Rachel Ratsch, Year 12
Parents 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