« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
Chapter 6: Recommendations
6.1 Our first recommendation relates to the content of the events. We would recommend replacing the Family fortunes element of the events. This was the most unpopular element and appeared to make little impact on knowledge or understanding. One suggestion would be to revert back to the "Who Wants to be Drugs Aware?" quiz used in 2005. Further recommendations include using the bands to deliver more messages related to Choices for Life and possibly singing cover versions of songs with which the pupils are familiar.
6.2 Second, we would recommend continuing to gain the opinions of pupils who attended Choices for Life in 2005 and 2006 as they progress through secondary school. Over the long term, this would allow actual behaviour to be related to attend at Choices events rather than relying on current perceptions of future behaviour. In particular, pupils' reactions to their exposure to drugs, alcohol and smoking (if it occurs) would add to the data gathered in this review.
6.3 Choices appears to be very successful in generating enthusiasm and raising important questions that will face young people. The major concern lies in the extent to which those with an interest in communicating messages about healthy living are able to capitalise on the opportunity created by Choices. In terms of attempting to incorporate Choices for Life more into the curriculum and continuing education, there may be some advantage in changing the timing of Choices for Life to enable educators to use the event as a 'launch pad' to educate young people on the issues covered. This review has demonstrated that Choices for Life is viewed as the culmination of drugs, alcohol and smoking education and follow-up from the event is limited at best. In terms of the timing of the events, there are two options: at the start of P7 or the start of S1. On balance, we would favour the start of S1 because at the start of P7, starting secondary school is still a year away and the issues will still be distant. At the start of S1, pupils will be at secondary but will not have fully made the transition to secondary. The point where pupils will be meeting new peers and embarking on a new stage in their education seems an appropriate time to introduce the concept of making choices for life.
« Previous | Contents | Next »