A health worker and police officer visited Memorial Oval Primary School on Tuesday to talk to year six and seven students about alcohol and other drugs.

And today (Thursday) Fisk Street will also host speakers from the police, ambulance and health sector to discuss safety, drug education and a range of other topics.

Fisk Street Primary has held lessons on drugs throughout the week for their students to spread awareness.

Information booklets will be passed out and activities will be held.

“This is really crucial for our kids and it is crucial that they have an understanding and awareness of a range of things, including drugs, peer pressure and hygiene,” Fisk Street assistant principal Martin Woodcock said.

“Drug education is a big part of it, but it goes further than that.”

Memorial Oval Primary School, Whyalla Special School and Fisk Street Primary School have this year received $200 in funding to continue a drug education program tailored to younger children.

Last year the three schools were granted $3000 by the government to begin programs at the schools for people in years six and seven.

The Department of Education and Children’s Services (DECS) is coordinating the Drug Action Week activities around the state.

DECS chief executive, Chris Robinson, said it is important for teenagers to have access to drug education, including education about the realities of over-the-counter and prescription medication, tobacco and alcohol, as well as illicit drugs.

“National Drug Action Week is really about awareness and it builds on the drug and student wellbeing programs already in place in South Australian government schools through the department’s School Drug Strategy,” Mr Robinson said.

“The strategy aims to impart resilience in our young people, including drug refusal skills, and for personal safety and the safety of others.

“Our priority is keeping students safe and educating them to make healthier choices.”

Last year an expo was held at the Special School in conjunction with the other two schools to increase awareness about drugs.

The initial program also involved training for staff and funding for guest speakers from the Department of Health and SAPOL.