Crossroads is a mandatory personal development and health course for year 11 and 12 students. It is mandatory for all senior students in NSW government schools.

It is a 25 hour course that allows students to reflect on the contemporary health issues facing young people. It assists students to address issues related to adolescence—issues related to identity, independence and their changing roles and responsibilities.

The course is structured around

• Relationships
• Drug education

You will explore these areas through research strategies using the internet and given sites as reference material.

Crossroads was developed to address some of the personal and social issues that relate to young people.

Many young people progress through adolescence without many problems, however many are directly or indirectly affected by exposure to a variety of risks factors that reflect on their health band well-being. Such health outcomes relate to Mental health, death or injury associated with risk taking behaviours eg (road accidents), and exposure to drug use.

“Students in Year 11 and 12 are a diverse group because of differences in cultural background, personal experiences, geographical location, gender and values held by the local community and the family. Students vary in their level of maturity and in their ability to face challenges of this time of life, such as exam pressures, learning to drive, decisions about the future and the pressure to use alcohol, tobacco or illicit drugs. The way in which they cope with these issues in late adolescence can have a significant impact on the rest of their lives.”

(Dept Ed and Training, Crossroads Rationale).

Students will develop an awareness of health issues related to young people and devise skills and coping strategies to assist them in making healthy choice.

There are no formal assessments. A grade will not be given. However, a certificate of completion will be given to verify the course has been completed satisfactorily.

So, now you understand what the course is all about, you are ready to start the program. If you still have doubts or need to ask questions please ring your teachers for assistance. Remember, at any stage during this course, if you need help with the work ring ASAP.