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Departmental Guidelines and Policy on Drugs in Schools: Alcohol

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  • Students, regardless of age, are not permitted on school premises under the influence of alcohol, or to possess or drink alcohol at school or at school-related activities including excursions, camps, socials or end-of-year dinners.
  • Staff, under the State Service Code of Conduct are required to act appropriately in the course of their duties and to maintain the confidence of the community in the activities of the State Service. Whilst holding duty of care responsibilities, including at out of hour student or school functions, activities or events, the consumption of alcohol or other unsanctioned drugs (see Appendix G), is not permitted.
  • Staff should be made aware of possible implications in relation to:
    Attending student social occasions not sponsored by the school, including year 12 end of year functions.
    Posting personal photos and information depicting or implying the use of alcohol and other drugs on electronic and social network facilities/ on-line communities.
  • School functions /events involving students must not provide alcohol. Consumption of alcohol may be permitted by the principal on social and fundraising occasions involving staff and parents provided that:
    • The function is not during normal school hours or when student activities are taking place.
    • Parents are advised in advance when alcohol will be offered at functions and the requirement of responsibility in relation to their child.
    • Students who are present with their parents are the responsibility of their parents.
    • Students without parent or responsible adult supervision are not permitted to attend.
    • Principals are ultimately responsible and must give approval for alcohol to be offered. 
  • Staff functions organised by employers which involve the drinking of alcohol (may include such things as "Friday night drinks", Christmas parties, social functions etc.) require consideration. Whilst there are benefits from these types of function, there are also some risks for the employer/principal
    Employers have an obligation to provide a safe workplace for their employees. Section 19(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act requires an employer to provide and maintain a working environment free from avoidable hazards.
  • At any staff function, there is always a need to ensure responsible serving of alcohol.

This page has been produced by the Department of Education

Questions concerning its content may be directed by email to ServiceCentre@education.tas.gov.au or telephone 1800 816 057.

This page was last modified on 16th February 2009. The URL for this page is: http://www.education.tas.gov.au/school/health/wellbeing/drugeducation/edupolicy/alcohol.

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