Project
Swindon Last Orders Alcohol Education Project
Description:
In early 2008, the Healthy Schools team at Swindon Borough Council piloted their ‘Last Orders’ Alcohol Education Project in three local schools. The initiative was developed in response to an identified need during the planning for the Swindon Alcohol Strategy, and built on succesful work undertaken in other areas of the country.
Targeted at Year Nine pupils, the project was centred around the Solomon Theatre Company’s ‘Last Orders’ production which had proved successful at engaging young people in Dorset. The theatre production was delivered in two stages:
- The Play: an hour long performance which looks at the consequences of binge drinking by three young people. Based on a true story the play shows how alcohol affects the way people think – their inhibitions, attitude to risk and ultimately their self-control.
- The Workshop: Following the performance, smaller groups of pupils participate in a workshop to explore the themes of anti-social behaviour, illegal purchase and attitudes to risk and sexual health. Pupils also get the chance to interview the characters in a Q&A session.
The theatre production was supported by complementary lessons and information for pupils in the participant schools. Three supporting lessons on alcohol awareness and units of alcohol were delivered within Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lesson time. Staff training on the lesson plans and project aims was delivered to the tutors.
An information pack was produced for every student attending the programme included information on the following areas:
- Alcohol issues
- Anti-social behaviour
- Alcohol and the law
- Sexual health
- Support and advice contacts
Following a positive evaluation of the project in May 2008, preparation is currently being done for the programme to be continued in Swindon starting in October.
Project status: Ongoing
Project type: Education
Project code: UHV2
