THREE Winchester schools are joining together to raise awareness for the effects of drugs and alcohol among pupils.

As part of the curriculum this year, students in Year 10 from The Westgate, Kings’ and The Henry Beaufort secondary schools will have a drug and alcohol education presentation designed and created by the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation, a drug education charity set up by Fiona and Tim Spargo-Mabbs in 2014 after the tragic death of their 16-year-old son Daniel as a result of taking ecstasy.

The aim of the charity is to support young people to make safe choices about drugs, and they are now working with students, teachers, parents/carers and professionals in around 300 schools, colleges and community organisations across London and the south of England.

The Henry Beaufort School will also host a drug and alcohol awareness workshop at the school for the parents of all three schools.

Sue Hearle, head teacher at The Henry Beaufort School, said: "I am so pleased that we have been able to facilitate this event for the three secondary schools in Winchester.

"All three schools are committed to providing the best possible information to students and parents."

Matthew Leeming, head teacher at Kings’ School, added: "This is an important issue, affecting the lives of dozens of young people across the city. We are delighted to be part of this project."

All three schools will also be holding a non-uniform day in support of the foundation’s work.