The Big Issue Classroom challenges secondary students to break down stereotypes surrounding homelessness and encourage tolerance and empathy towards all people.

Students attend a one hour group session (either at The Big Issue Classroom’s Headquarters in Melbourne’s CBD or at their school) where group discussions, games and fun activities are used to explore homelessness in Australia, discrimination in our society and what it is to be marginalised.

Sessions are facilitated by a specialist presenter and students and teachers also have the opportunity to hear directly from someone who has experienced homelessness first-hand. They share their story, focussing on the challenges they’ve faced and what has helped them overcome those challenges. Feedback has shown that the guest speaker has a direct impact on a very personal level for students attending the sessions.

Overall, the session gives students a tangible experience and by encouraging them to think beyond the facts and figures, their understanding of homelessness and disadvantage is greatly improved. 

How can The Big Issue Classroom assist teachers?

The Big Issue Classroom provides an opportunity for teachers to deliver some difficult, but very important subject matter. In addition to learning about homelessness, students gain a greater understanding of all types of discrimination and further develop their social awareness and conscience. 

The group session provides a platform for teachers to extend these discussions outside of The Big Issue Classroom. If there are specific aspects of your curriculum that you’d like us to integrate into the group session, we are more than happy to talk through these requests and equip you with various online and classroom tools, provided we have adequate notice. 

Teachers also receive a Teacher’s Resource Kit (including info sheets and lesson plans) and Student Info Packs (including an edition of the magazine and relevant student resources) after the session to help extend the material into the classroom and encourage at risk students to seek advice and support.

A visit to The Big Issue Classroom could be integrated into an urban experience program where students spend time in Melbourne attending various sites or activities. 

For information regarding The Big Issue Classroom, including booking dates, fees and content please direct enquires to:

Danya Sterling
Program Coordinator – The Big Issue Classroom
E: DSterling@bigissue.org.au
D: +61 (0) 3 9663 9136
M: +61 (0) 401 657 395