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Cessnock One Stop Shop and Triple C Project-(Classroom, School Climate and Communtiy Connection)
Background
The leading cause of death for young people aged 12-24 years is injury, with two thirds of all deaths in this age group attributed to this cause, including accidents and suicide. Other major causes of morbidity and mortality for young people in this age group include mental disorders and drug and alcohol misuse. There is considerable evidence supporting the potential of school-based interventions based on the Health Promoting Schools Framework, to produce positive health and social outcomes for young people in these areas. Additionally, improvement in parenting and family functioning has been shown to reduce the risk of drug use and abuse among young people.Aims and objectives
The aim of the Project is to improve the health and well-being of young people living in disadvantage areas of Hunter New England. The objectives are to:Facilitate positive learning environments and improved social outcomes for young people and their families.
Build the capacity of schools, youth services and the community to work together to address the identified needs of young people.
Promote positive parenting and family attachment of young people.
Implementation
In collaboration with the Department of Education and other local agencies, the project is based in five disadvantaged high schools in the Hunter New England Region. Based on the Health Promoting Schools Framework, it focuses on the curriculum, improving the ethos and environment of schools and building links and collaboration between schools and the community, including parents/families and youth services. A Steering Committee of key stakeholders oversees the running of the project and a Project Officer located in the schools facilitates the effective promotion and running of the project. The project is driven within each school by school teams which consist of teachers, parents, students and youth services. A Needs Assessment is undertaken which includes surveys of all students years 7-10 and environmental audits of school policies and practices. This process identifies priority issues and strategies which are documented in a Health and Well Being Action Plan. Project outcomes are evaluated using a pre post student survey.
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