– Projects – Schools Programs
#NotEvenOnce®
Schools Programs
NotEvenOnce® Projects for Schools
Empowering Young People with Knowledge, Resilience and Real-World Insight
At NotEvenOnce®, we deliver dynamic, age-appropriate drug and alcohol education seminars that speak directly to the heart of students’ realities—providing knowledge, shifting values, and strengthening the intention to live drug-free.
Grounded in the Australian Curriculum and aligned with the National Drug Strategy 2017–2026, our programs focus on demand reduction and are crafted using creative pedagogy that resonates with students from Grade 5 to Year 12.
Why NotEvenOnce®?
Our seminars go beyond scare tactics or statistics. We combine current scientific and medical evidence with real-life experience from those working on the front lines of addiction recovery. Personal stories from staff and program graduates help students understand the long-term impact of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use—especially on the developing brain—and what it means to make healthy, future-focused choices.
“The seminar was significantly effective in increasing knowledge, understanding of the connection between behaviours and values, and the likelihood of not engaging with alcohol and drugs.”
— Independent Evaluation, Australian University
We do not glorify substance use or the lifestyle surrounding it. With over 46 years of experience in rehabilitation through Teen Challenge, we speak with authenticity and urgency about the real-life consequences of addiction—some of which are irreversible. Our unique perspective enables us to connect, not just inform.
Building Fences Upstream
Our work in rehabilitation has made one thing clear: prevention is essential. Through NotEvenOnce®, we equip students to understand the why behind substance use—often a mask for deeper emotional or social struggles—and offer healthier ways to cope. In doing so, we help “build fences at the top of the cliff,” not just operate as the ambulance at the bottom.
Aligned and Evidence-Based
Delivered in Primary Schools, High Schools and Colleges, the seminars are:
Aligned with the Australian Health Curriculum
Delivered by experienced professionals and lived-experience speakers
Designed for repeat engagement, with new content each year
Backed by university-led independent evaluation
“There were significant knowledge gaps across schools… the seminar has a capacity to ‘catch up’ schools that may be lagging behind… the shift across Knowledge, Values, and Intentions was significant at every year level.”
— Independent Evaluation, Australian University
We also partner with the Dalgarno Institute to support schools with full curriculum options, increasing the seminar’s impact and helping teachers continue the learning journey.
Proven Reach, Real Impact
The NotEvenOnce® Project has reached over 54,000 students across NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, and TAS, from Grades 5 through 12.
Whether you're looking to strengthen your existing health curriculum or bring in an experienced and engaging external voice, NotEvenOnce® is ready to support your school community.
#NotEvenOnce® school projects, educate students in highly engaging, multi media school seminars which include:
#NotEvenOnce 1.0 & 2.0: For year 7 & 8 students and is a basic introduction to alcohol and other drugs:
Overview of some of The What – The How – The Why of drug use.
Specific and intensive focus on specifically how different drugs impact the body and brain and includes tactile exercises to assist retention.
Drugs focused on in this seminar/s are Alcohol, Cannabis, ICE, Ecstasy and other ATS.
Looks at causation issues and foundational aspects for developing resiliency around AOD issues.
#NotEvenOnce 3.0 & 4.0: For year 9 / 10 students. Content focuses on:
Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) use and the issues and the impact on the natural environment and climate change.
AOD use and the issues of social justice and responsibility in both the local and global community.
That global citizenship is about ensuring justice for the marginalised and vulnerable on the planet, particularly the poor and children and understanding of what drug use does to those key demographics.
Continues to focus on resiliency from a community perspective.
#NotEvenOnce 5.0 & 6.0: For year 11 and 12 students. Content focuses on:
Heads UP’ for students getting ready to step into the ‘unregulated’ world (outside school).
Looks more closely at resiliency issues and decision making, including potential psycho-social ‘anchors’.
Challenges the thinking of students to develop logical and evidence based frameworks for decision making around AOD issues in often complex, yet ill-conceived peer and boundary-less environments.
Builds on resiliency issues addressed in previous seminars.
#NotEvenOnce® programs for Primary Schools are also available.
Seminars are 60 - 90 mins in length.
Vaping & AOD Webinars
NotEvenOnce® Webinars: Reaching More, Equipping All
In addition to our widely praised in-person seminars, NotEvenOnce® Projects also offers engaging and informative interactive webinars for teachers, parents and students. This format ensures that no matter your location—or even during unforeseen disruptions like lockdowns—vital drug and alcohol education continues without compromise.
Our webinars are designed to be dynamic and accessible. When technology permits, we integrate interactive tools such as Kahoot! quizzes, allowing participants to test their knowledge, engage in real-time learning and enjoy a more interactive experience.
Vaping Education: Equipping the Adults First
One of the most urgent concerns facing young Australians today is vaping—and it’s only the beginning of what’s emerging in the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) landscape.
Our Vaping Information Webinars for teachers and parents are some of our most sought-after sessions. They provide the latest research, trends, and health impacts, while also equipping adults to have informed, supportive conversations with young people—especially in preparation for student-focused incursions.
“Excellent presentation for making staff aware of the dangers.”
“Fantastic presentation… the time went too quickly and I was very engaged throughout.”
“Based on this presentation, I’d like to see them deliver any topic they work with.”
Flexible and Tailored to You
Whether you're part of a remote or regional school, or you're seeking to include more voices in the AOD education conversation, webinars can be tailored to meet your community’s needs. We welcome bookings for dedicated school sessions or you can join one of our scheduled public events.
To enquire about or book a webinar, simply click the “Enquire Here” button below and complete the brief form. One of our team members will be in touch promptly to discuss your requirements.
#NotEvenOnce® Seminars for Parents, Teachers & Community Members
Educating and Equipping the Influencers in Young People’s Lives
At NotEvenOnce®, we believe that raising resilient, healthy young people is a community responsibility. The world today presents challenges that many of us—growing up in the 80s or 90s—were never prepared for. The availability, potency and social acceptance of drugs and alcohol have changed dramatically. And so has the science.
Many parents and educators are unaware of just how much has shifted:
THC levels (the part that makes you high) in cannabis today are up to 250% higher than in the past, making it a very different—and more dangerous—substance than it was a generation ago.
Every young cannabis user is at risk of experiencing psychosis, according to emerging medical research.
Alcohol use is now recognised as a significant risk factor for several cancers, including cancers of the mouth, throat, liver and breast.
These facts are just the beginning. We know that mixed messages—from peers, media or even well-meaning adults—can confuse young people and leave them vulnerable.
Our #NotEvenOnce® Parent, Teacher, and Community Seminars are designed to bring everyone onto the same page. Delivered alongside our school-based programs, these sessions provide:
Up-to-date scientific and medical information on drugs, alcohol, and their effects on the developing brain
Warning signs to look for in young people and loved ones
Practical tools and conversation strategies to help build resilience and open up honest, supportive dialogue at home and in the classroom
A chance to reflect on and challenge cultural norms that may unintentionally normalise risky behaviours
When adults are informed and equipped, they become stronger role models and more effective advocates for the young people in their care.
"This is an absolute must for every high school’s health program. It brought some of our students to tears and gave a real, heartbreaking face to the dangers of drug use. I have no doubt young lives will be positively changed because of it."
— Teacher Testimonial
A Unified Approach for Maximum Impact
We strongly encourage schools to host a Parent/Teacher seminar in conjunction with student presentations. When all the key influencers in a young person’s life are hearing the same message, it opens the door for powerful conversations, consistent messaging, and community-wide impact.
“Loved it all – well organised, fact-based, and answered every question.”
“Excellent presentation. The time flew by.”
Respecting Your Setting
Teen Challenge Australia is a faith-based organisation, however we fully respect the secular environment of state schools. All our school-based seminars are delivered in a secular format, unless a faith-based version is specifically requested by a non-secular school.
