Students at Mount Gambier High School have gained valuable real-world knowledge about their legal rights and responsibilities through a series of workshops presented by the Legal Services Commission of South Australia.
Over two days, Legal Services Commission educator Jana Gomes delivered interactive sessions to every year level, covering topics specifically designed to prepare young people for the legal issues they may encounter throughout their lives.
Year 7 students explored The Police and You, learning what to expect when interacting with police, their rights during police questioning and searches, how to make a witness statement, and where to access legal support.
Year 7 student Kaylee said one of her biggest takeaways was learning about recording police interactions. “I learned that filming police interactions is a way to keep yourself safe, but you must not stop them from doing their jobs or investigations.”
Fellow Year 7 student Teal said the session highlighted the importance of carrying identification. “Now that we have a school ID, we should have it on us when in public so we have a way to identify ourselves.”
Online safety was the focus for Year 8 students, who discussed cyberbullying, doxxing, deepfakes, hate speech, image-based abuse and other harmful online behaviours.
Students were also introduced to the free DARTA Digital Cards app, which provides practical, easy-to-follow guidance for responding to situations involving alcohol and other drugs.
The digital cards equip young people with information on how to support friends in situations such as excessive alcohol consumption, vomiting or drug-related incidents, encouraging them to be prepared, respond safely and know when to seek help.
Year 8 student Nation said the workshop reinforced that harmful online behaviour can have real legal consequences. “Ragebaiting, joking and pretending to be somebody else to annoy or harm someone else is illegal and can result in punishment from police.”
Students in Years 9 and 10 investigated the legal consequences of drugs, alcohol, vaping and traffic offences, including the impact that criminal convictions can have on future education, employment and travel opportunities.
They also learnt about support services available to assist young people in making informed and healthy choices.
Year 11 students participated in workshops exploring consent, respectful relationships and the law surrounding sexual activity, while Year 12 students considered the legal responsibilities that come with adulthood, including workplace rights, renting a home and living independently.
Head of Senior Years Samantha Brown said the workshops gave students practical knowledge that would benefit them well beyond their school years.
“Understanding the law isn’t just about knowing the rules, it’s about helping young people make informed decisions, recognise their rights and responsibilities, and know where to seek support when they need it,” Miss Brown said.
“These sessions provide students with practical information they can apply in everyday situations, whether they’re navigating the online world, interacting with police, entering the workforce or preparing to live independently.”
Miss Brown said partnerships with organisations such as the Legal Services Commission were an important part of preparing students for life after school.
“We are incredibly grateful to Jana Gomes and the Legal Services Commission for sharing their expertise with our students. The sessions were engaging, informative and highly relevant, giving our young people greater confidence to navigate the legal issues they may face as they grow into adulthood.”
The workshops formed part of Mount Gambier High School’s commitment to providing students with authentic learning experiences that build confidence, resilience and the skills needed to become informed and responsible members of the community.
