STUDENTS from the Tweed Shire have been hit with a strong reality check in the past two days.

About 800 Year 11 students from almost all of the high schools in the area participated in the 2012 Reduce Risk, Increase Student Knowledge (RRISK) seminars held at Twin Towns Services Club.

The program provided students with the latest evidence and practical skills to help them manage pressure from peers, plan ahead before going out and socialising and develop safer behaviours as drivers and passengers.

Northern New South Wales Local Health District coordinator of alcohol projects Reyna Dight said the program was specifically designed to target Year 11 students.

"Most have their Ps and if they don't they have their L's," she said.

"But the program doesn't just focus on driving; we cover all the aspects of socialisation and how to help in certain situations.

Ms Dight said the program was beneficial and research by the George Institute of Health proved it.

They found participating in the RRISK program resulted in a 44% reduced risk of young driver crashes.

Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School Year 11 student Jake Riddel said even though he was a cautious driver the seminar had opened his eyes.

The provisional licensed driver passed his drivers test just last moth.

"I'm a safe driver," he said.

"I follow the rules.

"But now I know how easy some thing can happen."

Jake said his mates would have learnt a few valuable life lessons from the seminars, but as his parents were police officers he was always on the straight and narrow.

The17-year old said he enjoyed the day because it was not boring.

"It was impressive how creative it was," he said.

"It wasn't boring and it had a big impact on me and I'm sure it did on others as well."