In a life threatening emergency dial Triple Zero (000)

breadcrumbs--red-border

The P.A.R.T.Y. Program gives school students information about trauma: a sudden, severe or life-threatening injury.

We help students recognise potential injury-producing situations, make prevention-oriented choices and minimise unnecessary risk.

About this service

P.A.R.T.Y. is an acronym for Prevent Alcohol and Risk-related Trauma in Youth. The program was developed in Canada in 1986 to provide in-hospital injury awareness and prevention to young people.

Our team runs sessions at Canberra Hospital and in schools. Students have the chance to meet and hear from emergency service professionals, doctors, nurses, therapists and people who have experienced trauma.

The program aligns with the Australian Curriculum’s Personal and Social Capability learning outcomes. It encourages students to:

  • recognise and regulate emotions
  • develop empathy for others
  • make responsible decisions and
  • handle challenging situations.

Who we care for

Our program is aimed at year 10 students attending ACT schools, both private and public.

How to access this service

We are taking expressions of interest for the In-hospital program.

Due to overwhelming popularity and interest, our In-school Outreach P.A.R.T.Y program is fully booked for 2024.

What to expect

Our program is extremely popular, so while we will try to accommodate your request, we cannot guarantee availability.

Once you’ve submitted your form, we aim to get back to you within 1 to 2 days.

During a session, we expose students to risks and choices they’ll be faced with as teenagers venturing into young adulthood, such as driving under the influence. We give students the opportunity to see what some of the consequences might be for risky behaviour.

Students will hear from first responders, doctors, nurses, therapists and people who have experienced trauma.

During the in-hospital program, students will be able to participate in a mock trauma scenario, taking on the role of a trauma nurse or doctor. They’ll also see what it’s like to rehabilitate from trauma and may get to meet and speak with trauma patients or those who’ve been directly affected by trauma.

What to bring to your appointment

  • Medicare card
  • Private health insurance card (if applicable/if you want to use it)

Where we’re located

Canberra Hospital or in-school.

Resources

P.A.R.T.Y. Program video

P.A.R.T.Y. Program evaluation

Program testimonials

“From my experience at the P.A.R.T.Y. excursion and seeing the horrible things that can occur, I would never want to increase my likelihood of ending up in a similar situation” - Year 10 student

“After P.A.R.T.Y. Program I know the huge risk associated with these decisions and the toll it takes on everyone around” - Radford College Year 10 student

“The Emergency department simulation and ICU discussion provides opportunities to see what happens behind the scenes and the effects it has on life.” - Teacher

“Ellen's speech (the injury survivor) was authentic and engaging. The tour of the hospital was also 'eye-opening' for the students.” - Teacher

“I liked to do hands on work and to meet patients that experienced the trauma, it will definitely make me think twice” - Caroline Chisholm student

“.....going into each room and seeing how dreadful it is being in hospital for taking risks” - Amaroo student

“The P.A.R.T.Y. Program was a fantastic program, it not only gave me a reason to take my license more seriously, it also showed me affects it has on parents and friends” - Caroline Chisholm student

“I’m going to chat to my friends about what I’ve learnt” - St Clare’s student

“.....the personal story...this really hit home to students the emotional side of things” - Belconnen High teacher

“Always wear a seatbelt and don’t get into a car with your friends if they are drinking/ have been drinking” - Caroline Chisholm student

“It engaged everyone to participate and really got the message through that one risk can change everyone’s life forever” - St Clare’s student

“I found it all relevant and interesting. This has been very worthwhile for students and staff. Thank you for providing us with this opportunity” - Marist College teacher

“I liked now knowing the effects of your actions on your family and friends” - Marist College student

mobile icon

In the case of a life threatening emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).

telephone icon

Contact us

Switchboard Canberra Hospital
(02) 5124 0000

International callers
+61 (2) 5124 0000

Switchboard North Canberra Hospital
(02) 6201 6111

International callers
+61 (2) 6201 6111

Switchboard other hospitals and services
(02) 5124 0000

International callers
+61 (2) 5124 0000

The switchboard handles all calls to, from and within the hospital 24 hours/seven days a week