Upstander Programs
How we create the Next Generation of Upstanders.
Education With Impact
Our Upstander Programs are the heart of what we do.
They’re how we create real and lasting change — by giving students and participants the tools, knowledge and confidence to reject discrimination and look for ways to make a positive difference in their everyday lives.
Delivered mostly to Year 5–12 students (with bespoke programs also available for community groups), each session runs for 90–120 minutes, designed to fit flexibly into school schedules.
Programs explore the history of the Holocaust, stories of everyday Upstanders, and the powerful testimony of a Holocaust Survivor — all woven together to spark dialogue, reflection, and action.
Delivered free of charge by our dedicated volunteers and trained facilitators, our programs are closely aligned with NSW and Australian school curricula, ensuring both educational value and life-changing impact.
“The program had a very strong impact on me. It inspired me and motivated me to be the positive change I want to see in the world.”
Year 12 student,
NEWCASTLE
“The program has fostered a shift in students’ behaviour, promoting greater empathy and understanding of one another. It has created a strong foundation for meaningful discussions about inclusivity.”
Teacher,
CANBERRA
“I will definitely try to support and talk to more people who look they may be having a bad day! I will do this knowing a small conversation make a big difference to someone.”
Year 10 student,
ST. IVES
“The way Courage to Care connects Holocaust tragedies to something that can be learned to empower young people to stand up for what is right today is profound and important.”
Teacher,
WESTERN SYDNEY
“Ernie’s story and positivity was really inspiring – not only was it interactive, but it also inspired my friend to tell us his family’s story. It had a profound impact on me and highlighted the importance of being an Upstander.”
Year 12 student
WOLLONGONG
“The Courage to Care team were passionate, knowledgeable and extremely easy to engage with during the administration phase. I would definitely recommend this program for your school!”
Teacher,
LUCAS HEIGHTS
Program Delivery
WE DELIVER UPSTANDER PROGRAMS THROUGH THREE PRIMARY FORMATS:
School Incursion
Where we come to your school at a time of your choosing and deliver Upstander Programs tailored to the relevant year group/s.
Regional Exhibitions
Where we come to your community to deliver a Courage to Care exhibition, partnering with local schools, council and the venue to deliver programs onsite.
Bespoke Adult Learning
Where we partner with your workplace or organisation to deliver Upstander Programs tailored to your needs and objectives.
Program Structure
WHAT STUDENTS AND PARTICIPANTS EXPERIENCE:
A brief documentary
A short film introduces students to the historical context of the Holocaust, illustrating the devastating consequences of unchecked prejudice, racism and discrimination. It sets the tone for the powerful stories and reflections that follow.
Understanding Upstanding
Through real-life stories of rescue and survival during the Holocaust, students learn how ordinary people found the courage to act in extraordinary ways. These case studies show that anyone can be an Upstander – even in the most difficult circumstances.
A Survivor’s testimony
Students hear directly from a Holocaust Survivor who shares their personal story of rescue. These powerful first-hand accounts offer a rare and moving insight into what it truly means to act with compassion, courage and moral strength.
Interactive workshop
Facilitated discussions invite students to reflect on their own experiences and attitudes around bystander behaviour. With practical tools and strategies, they learn how to take safe, positive action in their own lives and communities.
86% of schools that book a Courage to Care program ask us to return again.
Curriculum Links
Our Upstander Programs align with the NSW and Australian curricula, enriching student learning across a wide range of subject areas and capabilities.
The Programs provide schools with an opportunity to engage in anti-racism activities – an essential part of the NSW Department of Education’s Anti-Racism Policy.
It is also highly relevant for inclusion into social justice and well-being initiatives across the whole school.
LEARNING AREAS:
- English
- History / HSIE
- PDHPE
- Civics and Citizenship
CAPABILITIES:
- Personal and Social Capability
- Ethical Understanding
- Intercultural Understanding
- Critical and Creative Thinking
“The Courage to Care incursion is a fantastic opportunity for students to combine their knowledge of The Holocaust depth study and The Changing Rights and Freedoms stage 5 core topic for History. The activities using primary sources, resistance stories and small-group work on what it means to be an Upstander are invaluable to support students’ conceptual understanding and understand their place as a global citizen.
The Holocaust survivor stories captivated our students and encouraged them to look for ways they can be an Upstander in their spheres of influence. The educators were passionate, knowledgeable and the organisation was extremely easy to engage with during the administration phase. I would definitely recommend this program for your school!”
Head Teacher, HSIE,
Comprehensive High School,
Southern Sydney
“A big thanks to the wonderful team at Courage to Care who have successfully implemented their program for two years at our school. The group is very collaborative, and their expert knowledge and skills cater to a range of year levels and needs. Their program promotes lifelong learning and will have students commenting about the experience well after the team have left the school. Looking forward to working together again in the future!”
HSIE Teacher,
Lucas Heights
Booking A Program
Ready to bring an Upstander Program to your school, community or organisation?
Use the contact form below and select 'Book An Upstander Program' to send us a message. A member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible to discuss arrangements.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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