Up and coming generations shape our society. One day their values will influence the world we live in.
That’s why it’s so important to lay the right foundations for a more inclusive, diverse future.
Every day we’re surrounded by people of diverse faiths, cultures and beliefs. Sadly, we still see instances of discrimination, racism and hate speech throughout our communities. Living in a cohesive and peaceful society requires understanding, acceptance and inclusion.
Our kids shouldn’t have to navigate this on their own. That’s where our Upstander Programs come in.
Led by trained, passionate and experienced facilitators, students in Years 5-7 are guided through an age-appropriate exploration of their own attitudes and actions. We provide them with tools to develop more empathetic responses, and the language to advocate Upstander behaviour.
Our Upstander Programs are FREE to Victorian schools. Our Middle Years Program is the natural precursor to our Secondary Years Program and lays the foundation for the deeper analysis offered in SYP.
The Middle Years Program is delivered in one 90-minute workshop to students in their own classroom.
Upstander Programs align with the principles of the Victorian and Australian curricula Learning Areas and Capabilities:
Students will engage in hands-on activities and collaborate with others.
Activities help demonstrate to students how every individual can make a difference.
A guest speaker will detail their own experience of being rescued by people with the moral strength and courage to stand up in the most challenging of circumstances.
These personal stories highlight the importance of having the courage to care.
We explore students’ own attitudes and behaviours, and discover ways they can have more thoughtful and empathic responses.
Students take away practical tools and tips on how to become an Upstander within their own social groups.
increase in positive discussion among students
increase in students demonstrating Upstander behaviour
positive change in behaviour towards peers
“I believe this excursion to be one of the best that I have experienced in nearly 30 years of teaching. It was a credit to all concerned and such a program must be continued.”
“This exhibition is exceptional. It is full of life-changing concepts and you are courageous to share it with us.”
“It engaged the student with real details, then took it further to make it matter. Excellent presenters, great materials, effective program. “
“A wonderful program exceptionally well implemented by enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers.”
“The program links the past with current day perfectly. The students clearly made connections with Upstanders in WWII to current students/Upstanders and saw that they have the ability to be an Upstander.”
“The talk by a survivor was listened to in silence, although there were over one hundred students present. Attendance is free, yet the ‘return’ in information gained and discussion generated is massive. I commend the Courage to Care volunteers and urge teachers to take advantage of this excellent program.”
“Very powerful! It was great for the students to hear REAL stories which were then linked to the Local Heroes, so the goal of making a difference is made achievable. It had a major impact on students to think about others and have the courage to stand up.”
“Relevant to so much in adolescents’ lives – bullying, acceptance, bigotry, etc. A wonderful program. Please come to our region again soon.”
“This two-hour workshop taught more to the students than we could get through in weeks at school!”
“Thank you for making the effort to come to our school. This is the 3rd year that you have come to our school. Your message is perfect for the work we do with our students on bullying.”
“Real life education activity which helps engage students in understanding the Holocaust and the “Upstanding” message. A great experience, especially for our rural students who cannot travel to Melbourne.”