MP joins pupils learning about underage drinking

MSP Christine Jardine last week joined pupils at Craigmount High School in Corstorphine to learn of the risks of underage drinking.

This was cloaked in ‘Smashed’ which is a play about a group of friends who find themselves in trouble as a result of alchohol misuse.

The play is part of an international programme sponsored by Diageo and organised by Collingwood Learning which has been staged for 18,000 students across the UK.

Christine joined the audience of staff and 230 S1 students to watch the play and then take part in an interactive workshop.

‘Smashed’ was devised after speaking with young people and is meant to engage pupils in a different way to typical school lessons.

Speaking after the performance, Christine Jardine MP said: “It was terrific to see the students at Craigmount High School so involved in this engaging performance by Collingwood Learning. It’s important to promote healthy attitudes towards alcohol early on. Exposure to alcohol at a young age can be incredibly damaging, so empowering young people to say no and be responsible is a step in the right direction. Diageo’s engagement in this project also demonstrates their commitment to responsible drinking.”

Diageo is a global producer of many well known alcoholic drinks including Johnnie Walker.