This paper examines the short-term impact of the 'Decisions' programme of Life Education Centres (LECs) on pupil knowledge, beliefs and behaviour with regard to substance use. Data were collected from 339 10/11-year-olds pre- and post participation in the programme. The results suggest that the programme was highly rated by the pupils, and increased their knowledge about substance use and its promotion in the media. However, there was no improvement in the pupils' ability to choose a healthy course of action when under peer pressure to do otherwise, and no change in intentions to smoke when aged 16. Further research is advocated.
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