It what may be considered an unusual strategy, a school system in England has begun using a soap opera to teach teenagers about issues like gangs, drugs and pregnancy. The series, called "L8r", was developed by the Worcestershire Teenage Pregnancy Partnership.

"The DVD series, designed by young people in London, is backed up with chatrooms so teenagers in Worcestershire can debate the lives of the central characters... The series is designed to encourage youngsters to relate to the characters and see the impact decisions can have on their lives in the hope they will delay having sex."

The Partnership also offers free and confidential advice to both teens and parents. Read more at WorcesterNews.co.uk.

Labels: advice, consequences, teaching