Holocaust Education – Delivery Requirements

Delivering a quality Holocaust education program

Schools are strongly encouraged to use the Holocaust education Level 9–10 lesson plans developed by the department to deliver their programs. Alternatively, when developing their own programs, schools should ensure that their program:

1. aligns to the curriculum and is part of the Australians at War (1914–1945) Level 9–10 History investigation
2. is taught chronologically. A chronological approach, beginning with World War I and the interwar period, shows that the Holocaust did not happen in isolation. This helps students understand cause and effect, including the rise of Nazism and the escalation of hatred over time
3. is delivered safely and respectfully. This includes using age-appropriate language, avoiding distressing imagery, and encouraging student questions. It also means setting clear expectations and zero tolerance for racism in line with the Preventing and Addressing Racism in Schools policy
4. uses teaching materials from trusted and reputable sources, which represent a range of experiences and prioritise survivor voices. It acknowledges that some Nazi-generated propaganda may be shown briefly to illustrate manipulation, but it should be used sparingly to avoid distorting history, spreading harmful stereotypes, or disrespecting the memory of victims
5. deliberately uses historical concepts and skills including historical questioning, chronology, cause and consequence, continuity and change and others. Actively engaging students with authentic primary historical sources promotes deeper historical understanding. Teaching about the Holocaust should avoid the use of fictionalised content, role-plays, simulations, ‘impossible choice’ scenarios and Holocaust denial, or conspiracy theories. It should teach a range of experiences, rather than single-story narratives, for example, recognising that not all victims experienced concentration camps
6. incorporates an experiential learning opportunity, where possible. A visit to a Holocaust museum enhances a school program by letting students connect with real stories, primary sources, and survivor experiences. It deepens understanding and empathy. Bookings for the 'Everybody Had a Name' exhibition at the Melbourne Holocaust Museum: School programs (Levels 9–12, ages 15 and above, allow up to 90 minutes).

Refer to Holocaust teaching and learning resources for:

• detailed guidance
• Holocaust Level 9–10 lesson plans
• responses to common student questions.