National Guidance
Over the past decade there has been raised awareness of what the abilities and limitations of drug education are. Professionals should be realistic about what drug education is able to achieve and the most effective ways of delivering it. Risk and protective factors are the only parts of health education which professionals should be held accountable for. We cannot change behaviours. However, we do make a contribution to young people’s ability to be accountable for their own behaviour. The DEF believe that a holistic programme of drug education is the most effective. A comprehensive programme of drug education would take account of knowledge, skills and attitude development.

The DEF recommends that before undertaking any drug education programmes, organisations should be familiar with the previous national guidance document: ‘Drugs: Guidance for Schools’ (DfES 2004). The guidance is based on principles which underpin good practice in drugs education and managing drugs incidents. It is intended to help schools formulate a planned, co-ordinated and considered response to drugs. It is particularly relevant for school staff & governors and those providing support and guidance to young people including Youth Connexions, ESCOs and school nurses.
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This guidance document may not be replaced, so it remains the most current example of national guidance.

Principles of drug education
The DEF has agreed key principles to ensure that drug education and training meets local and national requirements. These best practice principles can be used within non-schools settings where drug prevention and education is delivered e.g. colleges, youth clubs, sports diversionary projects. The DEF believes that following these principles will help to enhance the quality and consistency of drug education across Hertfordshire. DEF Key principles Word