In recent times there has been an increase in the number of young people becoming involved with violent extremist networks throughout Western countries. Along with this increase has come a debate regarding the appropriate role of education and educational institutions in countering violent extremism (CVE). This article analyses initiatives undertaken to date within a Western context, before presenting an in-depth case study of a multi-year Australian training programme. It is hoped that this analysis will assist in the refinement of a more effective and proportionate approach to involving educational institutions in CVE initiatives.