Empowering Safe Choices – Paul Dillon Speaks to Students

June 16, 2025

We are committed to preparing our students for the complexities of the world beyond the classroom. Last week, our Years 10, 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to learn from Paul Dillon, a world-renowned drug and alcohol specialist with almost three decades of experience in youth education.

Paul’s annual visit is an integral part of our wellbeing and pastoral care program for our senior students. His engaging and informative style allows students to absorb critical information and apply it in real-world situations. Each session builds on the previous year, reinforcing key messages and adding new insights as students mature.

Clear, Practical and Evidence-Based

Paul’s talks are grounded in the latest medical research and real-life examples. With each year group, he takes a developmental approach, addressing the issues most relevant to their stage of life. He speaks honestly and factually, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices.

Year 10: Young people, alcohol and risk taking

Students explored the risks associated with alcohol and the importance of looking after friends in social situations. Paul provided simple, practical strategies to stay safe and encouraged students to challenge the myth that “everyone is doing it”. He highlighted the importance of knowing when to call for help and introduced the Emergency Plus app as a safety tool.

Year 11: Alcohol, vaping and cannabis - what do you and your friends need to know?

Year 11 students built on this foundation, learning about the effects of vaping and cannabis. Paul addressed mental health risks and how to recognise when a friend may need support. He also encouraged students to take an active role in helping peers who may want to quit.

Year 12: Last year at school - what do I need to know about alcohol and other drugs?

For our Year 12 students, preparing for life beyond school, the focus widened. Paul discussed drink driving, roadside drug testing, and the risks associated with party drugs such as MDMA and ketamine. Importantly, he addressed how to respond to emergencies, reinforcing the message that seeking help quickly can save lives.

Strengthening Emotional Intelligence and Responsibility

Beyond the facts and figures, Paul’s sessions empower students to develop emotional intelligence, critical thinking and personal confidence. He challenges them to think about how they would react in real-life situations and how they might support a friend in need.

This type of education is invaluable. Paul doesn’t tell students what not to do. Instead, he gives them the tools to navigate peer pressure, assess risk and make safe, responsible choices. It encourages mature conversations about difficult topics and promotes a culture of care and accountability.

We believe that keeping our students safe starts with education. Paul Dillon’s work helps us deliver on that commitment in a way that resonates with young people and stays with them as they face new challenges.

If you would like to know more, Paul provides great resources for students and parents on his website. https://darta.net.au/

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Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.