Paul Dillon from the Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia visited the School on 19th September. For the second year, Paul presented information to our 3 Senior School Year groups. Each presentation was different and followed on from the information presented last year. For Year 10s, the focus was on Alcohol; Year 11 the focus was on Cannabis and other drugs, whist Year 12s looked at how to stay safe as drivers and passengers and at Leavers.
“On Monday the 19th of September we, the Year 10s, attended a talk from guest speaker Mr. Paul Dillon. This was the first of three talks that we will receive from him throughout our time in Senior School. Mr. Dillon was enthusiastic and kept us entertained from start to finish and he made talking about a subject that can sometimes be taboo easy and enjoyable. He spoke to us about the dangers that alcohol and drugs present during our adolescent years and how best to deal with these dangers and issues. We were told stories of individuals our age which shocked many of us; however, primarily helped us learn from their mistakes by giving us a better chance at going through our teenage years unscathed. I personally walked away from the talk with a new outlook on how to deal with these dangers and ultimately, a lot of respect for Mr. Paul Dillon.” (Maddison Walker, Year 10)
“Paul’s speech was an entertaining and educational experience. He helped raise the awareness of serious issues amongst teenagers in today’s society. For example, drinking and using illegal drugs. I enjoyed his honesty about the situation rather than the sugar coating we often hear. His suggestions and advice on how to react when in these situations was very helpful. By following his advice, if any of us find ourselves in a situation where we are looking after a drunk friend, we could potentially save our friend’s life. Paul stressed to look after our mates in such situations. He spoke about the mental health impacts from using cannabis, where it could unlock a possible pre-existing condition, such as depression, schizophrenia or bi-polar. Once a person has such a condition, they have this for life. I will be looking forward to hearing Paul speak to us again next year when we are in Year 12.” (Astha Sinha, Year 11)
“Paul Dillon has given me an array of skills that, in the future, I will be able to use in my life. He’s taught us the do’s and do not’s of looking after an intoxicated friend and how to approach and be safe when being pulled over or having an RBT or drug safe. All in a humorous and interesting manner. I’m glad he came to see us.” (Alex Banks, Year 12)
Paul Dillon will return to the School next year, Tuesday 19th September, 2017 where he will speak to Year 10, 11 and 12 students. He will also speak at the Connect Learn Engage Parent seminar on the evening of that same date.