Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 January 2013
314. Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has any plans to implement or introduce a drug and alcohol awareness study in secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3958/13]
View answerThe Department of Education and Skills, through Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) and its substance abuse prevention education, contributes to the overall aim of Government policy in relation to drugs and alcohol which is to provide an effective, integrated response to the problems posed by substance abuse. Substance abuse prevention education is implemented as part of the SPHE curricula. SPHE is mandatory in all primary and post-primary schools up to Junior Certificate level. A full time support service offers professional development to teachers and advice to schools. The second level support service is operated jointly with the Health Sector.
The substance use module of the SPHE curriculum focuses on the issues relating to the use and misuse of a range of substances. While most young people are aware of the implications and consequences of misusing substances, including alcohol, the SPHE curriculum actively seeks to promote healthy and responsible choices by students in relation to their lives. The Framework for Junior Cycle, published in October 2012, is underpinned by 8 principles one of which is "Wellbeing". Through Wellbeing "the student experience contributes directly to their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing and resilience. Learning takes place in a climate focused on collective wellbeing of school, community and society". In addition the Framework contains 24 Statements of Learning which students should experience. The Principles plus 24 statements will provide the basis for school planning and evaluation. One of these statements aims to ensure that the student "takes action to safeguard and promote his/her wellbeing and that of others".
In addition, there are six key skills required for successful learning by students across the curriculum and for learning beyond school. These key skills are linked to the skills required at senior cycle and those already developed for early childhood and primary education. One of the six key skills of Junior Cycle is "Staying Well". While education has a role to play in addressing the problem of alcohol misuse, behavioural change will not happen without the support and co-operation of parents, industry and society as a whole. Parents have a responsibility to help children and young people to adopt sensible and responsible attitudes and behaviours in relation to alcohol and drug abuse.
