Drug Education Teacher Booklet

10 HOW TEACHERS CAN GUIDE THEIR STUDENTS AGAINST DRUG AND ALCOHOL-RELATED HARMS Teachers are important sources of information for students who have questions about drugs and alcohol. Most young people spend more time at school than at home with their parents. Because of this, the social environment of the school is a key factor influencing the development of young people. Research has shown that a positive relationship with school, which creates a greater sense of community, attachment, and performance, is associated with reduced risk of drug-related harm. As a teacher, you can help a student have a positive relationship with their school by: ● Setting clear rules and boundaries which are consistently enforced in a reasonable and measured manner; ● Keeping an open mind and asking students for their opinions; ● Giving praise and reward students’ good behaviour, achievements and accomplishments; ● Encouraging constructive use of time; ● Modelling a sense of optimism and a positive view of learning; ● Encouraging participation in extracurricular activities; ● Being a good listener; ● Correcting common misperceptions that young people have about drugs and alcohol. Overestimations of rates of use can normalise alcohol and drug use for young people; ● Modelling appropriate alcohol use behaviours at school events. The availability of alcohol at school events may interfere with drug education and prevention efforts. Be considerate of your school’s liquor licensing policy and check if it is in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for alcohol-free events where children are present.