On 26 August 2019, we were thrilled to welcome Paul Dillon back to Endeavour. Paul presented his alcohol and drug information sessions to our senior students for the eleventh consecutive year at the College. Each year, Paul presents the latest research data around alcohol and drug use, highlighting that the majority of young people are not engaging in these behaviours. Paul’s sessions also have a strong safety focus, with many important messages which stay with our senior students from year to year.

Our Year 10, 11 and 12 students responded very well to Paul and his mix of tough reality and humour. The information he shared was potentially lifesaving for young people and will help to inform safe choices. Senior students were very engaged throughout the session and have reflected positively on Paul’s sessions with teachers, and hopefully at home with their families.

This year, we were fortunate to secure Paul to present an evening session for parents and caregivers of Endeavour College and Connected Schools students, which was also very well received by those in attendance who learnt more about what they can do to support their child.

Paul’s annual visit to the College is just one part of what we do across the curriculum and pastoral programs to educate our students in this particular area. Working collaboratively with families to support student wellbeing is critical, so we encourage all parents and caregivers to extend on student learning at home with supportive and informed conversations.

We are thankful to Lutheran Education South Australia, Northern Territory and Western Australia for their ongoing support of Paul’s visits to Lutheran Schools in South Australia. As always, we look forward to his visit to Endeavour again next year.

For more information and practical resources/fact sheets, visit Paul Dillon’s blog or the DARTA website.