Year 8 Safety and Wellbeing – NSW School Liaison Police Visit

Year 8 students recently had an important visit from NSW School Liaison Police Officer, Constable Jim, who spoke to them about critical topics affecting young people today. The lesson focused on raising awareness and educating students about vaping, bullying, alcohol use, consent and domestic violence.

Constable Jim engaged Year 8 with information about the risks and consequences associated with vaping and alcohol, emphasising the importance of making safe and responsible choices. He also addressed bullying, highlighting how it impacts individuals and the community and encouraged students to stand up against it.

Constable Jim educated students on consent to help them understand personal boundaries and respect for others, fostering a culture of mutual respect. Additionally, he spoke about domestic violence, aiming to inform students about its serious nature and the importance of seeking help if they or someone they know is affected.

To provide context, recent statistics show that vaping among young people in NSW is a growing concern. According to the 2023 NSW Health survey, approximately 15% of students aged 12 to 17 have tried vaping, with around 7% reporting regular use. These figures highlight the importance of education on the health risks and legal implications associated with vaping.

This visit is part of our ongoing commitment to support the wellbeing and safety of our students by providing them with this invaluable opportunity and knowledge to navigate these challenges confidently. We encourage parents to continue these conversations at home to reinforce these vital messages.

Ms Mary David, Year 8 Coordinator