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The

BE

A

T

Program

The Breathe Easy All Together (BEAT) peer-leadership program aims to empower students by providing them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage an asthma emergency and resist e-cigarette use.

How It Works:

The BEAT program builds on an evidence-based peer-education model informed by principles of Social Cognitive Theory and Empowerment Education.

Step 1: Approximately 25-30 Year 10 students are trained as BEAT Peer Leaders by PERU staff during a one-day workshop

Step 2: Year 7 classes receive 3×60 minute lessons:

  • Lesson 1 [TEACHER-LED]: Unpacking Vaping Online Course 
  • Lesson 2 [PEER-LED]: Understanding asthma and the need to protect respiratory health
  • Lesson 3 [PEER-LED]: Building resilience to vaping & finding alternative health behaviours

Our Reach

As of December 2025

Years
0
High Schools
0
Peer Leaders
0
Year 7 Students
0

How was it created?

The BEAT program builds on decades of experience and on two evidence based peer education programs: the Adolescent Asthma Action (Triple A) and Students As LifeStyle Activists (SALSA).

The program was developed in Phase 3 of the ‘Unpacking Vaping in Schools’ project. Read more here.

Following a successful pilot study to determine program acceptability and feasibility we are undertaking a study to evaluate the BEAT program. You can read the study protocol here.

Student Voice

What Schools are Saying

“Having been part of the BEAT pilot in 2023, I know the program not only addresses the immediate issue of e-cigarette use but also fosters student leadership skills and enriches our school community. This approach aligns with the school’s Strategic Improvement Plan and our commitment to supporting the health, wellbeing and holistic development of our students.”
Deputy Principal, Model Farms High School
“Through the BEAT program l was able to learn and understand the long lasting impacts of vaping and smoking, and how to say NO! I was able to assist in educating younger students about the negatives of smoking and vaping. This program also gave me the opportunity to collaborate with my peers and boost my confidence.”
BEAT Peer Leader, 2025
“The BEAT program made me take ownership for a problem I am passionate about.”
BEAT Peer Leader, 2025
“The very essence of the BEAT model is to empower young people to become advocates for one another. I have witnessed first-hand the conviction of the students who have led this education program within our school community. I strongly recommend the BEAT program as an initiative that can make a positive difference in reducing e-cigarette use in adolescents across the NSW community.
Principal, Nepean CAPA High School
“I enjoyed being a peer leader who takes the opportunity to educate students about the effects of vapes and what’s in a vape.”
BEAT Peer Leader, 2024
“Being a BEAT Peer Leader was excellent as it helped me further develop skills, and provided me with knowledge and understanding of how harmful vapes and cigarettes are.”
BEAT Peer Leader, 2024
“I learnt that it’s okay to say no to a vape and that I don’t need to be embarrassed.”
BEAT Peer Leader , 2026

Want to know more?

Contact us