Written question WQ82572

Our overall aim is to ensure that children and young people are aware of the dangers and the impact of substance misuse and to know where they can seek information, help and support if they need it.

Our Whole School Approach Statutory Guidance published in March requires schools to consider the wellbeing needs of learners, including those whose wellbeing has been impacted as a result of substance misuse.

Work is developing on the new curriculum from September 2022 and this will include a Health and Well-being Area of Learning and Experience (AoLE) which will enhance the new curriculum‘s focus on the health and well-being of learners, and this will include issues around substance misuse.

Within this area, there is a sufficient degree of flexibility to support learners; for example, key learning includes enabling learners to “……. learn how the brain works and understand their thoughts, feelings and emotions” …. and also “how lifestyle choices can impact the human body (including diet, drug & alcohol use and exercise).” In addition, the learning incorporates enabling learners to “recognise some of the behaviours, conditions and situations that affect physical health and well-being, and know how to respond and get help in a safe way.”

Furthermore, we currently support the Wales Police Schools Programme, along with the four Police forces in Wales, to deliver education on substance misuse and wider community and personal safety issues at all key stages of the curriculum, amongst a range of other lessons. There was a Police led review of this work and my officials are discussing with the Police and other partners how we can further strengthen and develop this programme by taking forward recommendations of the review.