Empowering our Students: Paul Dillon

Paul Dillon recently led impactful workshops with Years 10, 11 and 12 students, providing valuable education around drugs, alcohol and personal safety. Through these sessions, Paul empowered students with the knowledge and skills needed to make safe, informed choices. Many students were influenced by the sessions, sparking conversations among Peers, Parents and Caregivers, and Staff. We hope these important discussions continue at home.

The workshops were tailored with age-appropriate information, examples and discussions. Paul masterfully engaged students in considering the social and emotional influences that surround drug and alcohol use. Most importantly, he encouraged students to think critically about their choices and the potential consequences.

Key messages from the sessions included:

1. Understanding risk – Students explored the physical and mental health impacts of drug and alcohol use and were encouraged to reflect on the environments they want to create for their own wellbeing.
2. Informed decision-making – Real-life examples and current information supported students in making safer, more informed decisions.
3. Peer influence – Paul provided strategies to help students manage peer pressure and make choices aligned with their values.
4. Safe practices – Practical advice around looking out for friends and what to do in an emergency helped students build confidence and expand their personal safety strategies.
5. Open communication – Students were reminded of the importance of talking with trusted adults and seeking help when needed.

Students were also encouraged to download the Emergency Plus app, which contacts emergency services at the press of a button and automatically shares the user’s location. This is a useful safety tool we recommend to all families.

Through the Stella Wellbeing Program, Lourdes Hill College remains committed to fostering a supportive and empowering learning environment. Paul’s workshops offered further practical tools for students’ wellbeing toolkits, strengthening both their confidence and capacity to make informed choices in a complex world.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Paul Dillon and encourage our community to explore his resources via the DARTA website:
www.darta.net.au

Jo Brasch-McPhee
Dean of Student Wellbeing

Parents and Caregivers' Resources 

Lourdes Hill College is proud to partner with SchoolTV, which provides families with expert resources and practical strategies for supporting student well-being.

This platform offers a range of information on topics such as mental health, resilience, and personal development, complementing the LHC Wellbeing Program and supporting students throughout their school journey.

Click the link below to explore these valuable resources.

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