CompletedInterventional

Using theatre to help prevent drug use among secondary school pupils in East Sussex (England)

This study is checking if a theatre programme helps secondary school students in East Sussex (aged 12-15) understand and make smart choices about substances like drugs, alcohol, and vaping. It involves a live show and classroom activities. Researchers will talk to students, school staff, and parents to see if the programme works well and how people feel about it. The aim is to find out if this programme can help young people feel more confident dealing with peer pressure and difficult situations, potentially leading to better drug education in schools. It's being run by the University of Brighton with East Sussex County Council.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Enrolment target

5,536

Start

24 Feb 2025

Estimated completion

16 Jun 2025

Prevention of illicit substance use among secondary school pupils through a Theatre-in-Education intervention.

What is this study about?

Imagine a special theatre performance that isn't just for fun, but also helps you learn important life skills. This study is all about a program like that, specifically designed for students in Years 8 and 9 (aged 12-15) in secondary schools across East Sussex. The main idea is that by watching a play and then talking about it in class, young people can get better at making healthy choices when it comes to things like vaping, alcohol, and illegal drugs. It aims to build their knowledge, confidence, and ability to handle tricky situations.

The researchers want to understand how effective this theatre-based learning approach is. They will be looking at whether it helps students learn new things, change their attitudes, and feel more prepared to deal with peer pressure or choices about substances. They'll also be asking what students, teachers, and even parents think about the programme and if it helps create open conversations at home.

This study is important because it could show a new way for schools to teach about health and well-being. If the programme works well, it could help improve how young people are educated about these important topics, not just in East Sussex but potentially in other areas too. It's a team effort between the University of Brighton and East Sussex County Council, with funding to find out what really makes a difference.

Key takeaways

Study looks at theatre's role in drug prevention for 12-15 year olds.
Aims to boost knowledge and confidence about drugs, alcohol, and vaping.
Involves students, school staff, and parents in East Sussex schools.
Participation includes surveys, interviews, and group discussions.
May help improve future substance education in schools.
You can stop participating at any time if you wish.

Who may be eligible?

This study is for particular groups of people in East Sussex involved with the theatre programme. It includes students in Years 8 and 9 (typically aged 12-15) at secondary schools that are putting on this special theatre show and classroom activities. For students to take part, their parents or guardians need to agree, and the student also needs to understand and agree to be involved.

We are also looking for school staff who are involved in running or teaching parts of this programme, such as those who lead PSHE lessons. Finally, if you are a parent or carer who has attended a special theatre performance for parents, you might also be able to join. Everyone who takes part needs to be able to give their agreement and understand the surveys or discussions.

However, not everyone who sees the show can be in the study. For instance, students identified by their teachers as potentially becoming upset by the topics discussed might not be asked to join the discussion groups. If you haven't attended the theatre show, or can't understand what the study is asking, you won't be able to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a Year 8 or 9 student (12-15 years old) at a participating East Sussex school?
Have your parents/guardians given their consent for you to take part?
Are you a school staff member involved with this theatre programme?
Are you a parent/carer who attended the special parent performance?
Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
Have you attended the theatre-in-education performance?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, what you do depends on whether you are a student, school staff, or a parent/carer.

Students who participate will complete a simple questionnaire before seeing the theatre show and then another one after the show and classroom activities. Some students will also be invited to join small group discussions (called focus groups) to share their thoughts and experiences. Researchers might also watch the show and follow-up discussions.

School staff involved in the programme will be asked to fill in questionnaires and might be invited for an interview to talk about how the programme fits into school life and its impact. Parents or carers who join will take part in focus groups to share their opinions on the programme and how it might affect family conversations about substances.

The study is expected to run from September 2024 to October 2025. Each part you participate in, like a survey or focus group, will only take a short amount of your time.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer some benefits. Students might find they feel more confident in making good decisions about substances and handling peer pressure. The findings from this research could also help improve health education in schools for many other young people. There are some potential risks to consider. Some of the discussions might touch on sensitive topics around substance use. However, the researchers are specially trained to make sure everyone feels comfortable and can stop taking part at any point if they feel uneasy. Schools will also ensure support is available if any student needs it. Remember, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

East Sussex Council Public Health
City only
Lewes, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a 'Theatre-in-Education' programme?

It's a special theatre show performed for students, followed by classroom activities, designed to teach important life lessons and skills in an engaging way.

Why focus on 12-15 year olds?

This age group, typically Years 8 and 9, is often at a crucial stage for learning about substance use and making informed decisions.

Will my child have to do anything they don't want to?

No, absolutely not. Participation is voluntary, and anyone can stop taking part at any time if they feel uncomfortable.

Who is running this study?

The study is being led by the University of Brighton, working with East Sussex County Council's Public Health Department.

What will happen with the information gathered?

The information will be used to understand if the theatre programme works well and to help improve drug education in schools.

How to find out more

Jörg Huber

J.Huber@brighton.ac.uk +44 1273 600900 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.