Drug mentoring program at Umina campus

A mentoring program initiated by the Peninsular Community Drug Action Team (CDAT) will be run at Umina college campus this year.

It aims to teach the peer leaders in Year 9 "to support the incoming Year 7 students in making positive choices".

The program is designed "to help them make the transition smoothly and to reduce risk-indicating behaviour and encourage positive lifestyle decisions".

Peer leaders were introduced to the program at a training weekend at Patonga camp recently.

"It was a real challenge for them and for us," said CDAT committee member and mentor trainer Mr Joe Schumacher.

"We endeavored to build a peer champion role and teach them to lead by example.

"They will become the first reference point for the younger students to access appropriate services, if necessary," he said.

A video and resource package will be available for parents or interested parties from the Peninsular CDAT.

Contact John McCaskie on 4344 2509 for further details.

Press release, January 29