Into the Unknown is an experiential learning project for year 8 pupils and their parents. The project affirms the Amaze message about self-respect and goes on to teach more facts about the possible effects of alcohol and drugs. Drama helps individuals to explore and analyse the ways in which they are influenced by peer pressure and the media.
The activities are designed to ensure that the young people relate what they discover to their own lives. Each young person is encouraged to think critically about influences such as music, TV, celebrities and the Internet. They come away form this zone more aware of how external influences can affect their decisions and how they can counter negative influences.
‘Into the Unknown’ then focuses more specifically on drugs and alcohol, building on the children’s prior knowledge or perceptions about drugs, and ensuring that they are accurately informed. The interactive nature of these sessions has a great impact on the children as they begin to distinguish fact from myth.
Aim
To provide drugs education through participatory, interactive, learning methods.
To include parents in their children’s drug education.
Objectives
To develop assertiveness skills and coping strategies to deal with peer pressure.
To assess and correct myths about drugs knowledge and use and the effects on the body.
To raise awareness of issues and effects of alcohol and demonstrate alternatives.
To provide factual information so that informed choices can be made.
“Thank you for the excellent drugs and alcohol presentations over the last few days.
The programme was well received by the staff,
pupils and parents.” Teacher Presentation College, Reading
Parents: "Helpful supportive information."
Projects
Amethyst’s projects promote self-respect as children participate in activities, role-play and discussions which emphasise their worth and value:
