Teen Challenge

Teen Challenge Speaks to Year 5 & 6 Students and Senior Chapel

On Tuesday this week, students across Oxley Christian College were given the opportunity to hear powerful, real-life stories through the Not Even Once program. Delivered by the passionate Tanya Cavanagh from Teen Challenge, these sessions focused on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, the importance of wise choices, and the transforming power of hope.

Our Year 5 and 6 students participated in an age-appropriate talk that explored how peer pressure, curiosity, and media can influence decision-making—even from a young age. Tanya encouraged students to think ahead, consider consequences, and make values-based decisions that align with who they want to become. Tanya shared with the students the reality and dangers of the chemicals that are included in vapes and the potential negative consequences of use. 

For our Senior School students, the presentation took place during Chapel and was deeply impactful. In an extended session, students heard a raw and moving testimony of a life nearly destroyed by substance abuse and crime. But the focus was not just on the damage—it was also about redemption, grace, and new life. There was a powerful reminder that no one is beyond hope and that there is always a choice, even in the darkest moments.

The message of Not Even Once was clear: we are all making decisions every day that shape our future, and saying "no" to destructive paths is not weakness—it's strength. Students were encouraged to seek help if they are struggling, to support their friends wisely, and to remember that they are deeply valued by God.

We are grateful to Teen Challenge Victoria for their ongoing partnership and their heart to invest in the next generation. These conversations are not always easy, but they are essential. Our prayer is that the seeds planted during these sessions will bear lasting fruit in the lives of our young people.

Pastor Matt

College Chaplain