Last updated: 03 Dec 2002

QCA has today published draft guidance entitled Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Education: Curriculum Guidance for schools Key Stages 1 - 4. The materials provide guidance to schools to promote high standards of teaching and learning in drug, alcohol and tobacco education. The content is based on aspects of the non-statutory PSHE framework and the requirements of the programmes of study for science and citizenship. The guidance forms part of a wider training initiative, designed to help teachers develop appropriate teaching and learning activities for pupils and increase their confidence in teaching about the risks associated with the consumption of drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Notes to editors

• QCA consulted a wide range of organisations when producing this guidance, including teachers, DfES, Home Office, Department of Health, LEAs, and key stakeholders in drug, alcohol and tobacco education and a range of NGOs.
• This guidance can be seen at www.qca.org.uk/pshe. The guidance will be sent to schools in the new year.
• This guidance forms part of the DfES drug, alcohol and tobacco education training package for teachers (see www.teachernet.gov.uk/PSHE ).
• References to further sources of support and information are included at appendix 5 in the teacher's booklet.
• For further information, contact the Press Office on 020 7509 6789.