During the students’ lunch hour we were set up in the refectory area, and bought a number of interactive activities to engage them. We were also assisted by the college Health Ambassadors who had a specific interest in creating alcohol and drug awareness amongst their peers.
In spite of the short time slot, we managed to attract quite a number of students to the stand. The ‘beer’ and drug goggles were a big hit, which simulated the visual effects of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. We encouraged students to partake in a mini ‘Field Impairment Assessment’, which included walking in a straight line and touching their nose with their finger; all whilst wearing the googles. Although it was quite amusing for most of the students, it had a serious message about how drinking alcohol and using drugs could impact their ability to drive safely. We also bought our remote control car for students to ‘drive’ with and without the goggles to observe the difference.
The units challenge was also a popular activity, as this gave the students an opportunity to test their existing knowledge on alcoholic units or improve on it if they were unsure. At the very least it encouraged the older students to take a step back and consider exactly how much alcohol they do drink, compared with recommended guidelines.
We received some excellent feedback from the students on the day; one of whom said “if all my lessons were this interactive, I’d be so knowledgeable!”
We are available to deliver health events and educational sessions on a range of topics surrounding drugs, alcohol, smoking and gambling. If you are part of a college or school and would like to raise awareness with your students, please get in touch today.