Homelessness Workshop (Year 9–Year 12)
Specifics
- Level: Secondary (Years 9–12)
- Location: In school, local Salvation Army or CBD (when combined with City Tour)
- Attendees: 12–30 students
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Cost: $200 + GST
Description
This program is designed to encourage safe, informed, and compassion-driven conversations around the causes and diversities of experiences of homelessness. Through the use of interactive activities, storytelling, and the sharing of current data on homelessness, the complexities of homelessness are highlighted to students. Students are encouraged to step back from judgements, break down and challenge stereotypes, and understand that both individual experiences and societal structures can contribute to experiences of homelessness and injustice. They will learn about the services The Salvation Army offers and learn how they can seek support for themselves and others during times of hardship. Through this impactful learning opportunity, students will be offered pathways to combat social inequities and empowered to take action towards supporting those who are vulnerable.
Learning Outcomes
- Students come to understand the ways that The Salvation Army provides support to people experiencing hardship and homelessness
- Students can discuss issues of homelessness through an empathetic and informed lens
- Students understand the diversity of experiences of homelessness, and are aware of the many factors that can impact individuals and their experiences of hardship and homelessness
- Students know where to seek support for themselves and others experiencing hardship
- Students are empowered with ways to take action on an individual and community level to positively contribute to their community
“I think [it] was really helpful in helping us understand more about homelessness and empathise with the people experiencing homelessness. Thank you for the valuable experience.”
— Student
“The stories were real and engaging. […] The activities give the students time to think and not listen but be active participants - all well timed with the information given.”
— Teacher
Note: Costs
Some of our workshops are free while others have an associated cost. The workshop fee supports the delivery of the workshop and broader work of The Salvation Army. However, cost should not be a barrier to accessing the education within our workshops.
If your school is unable to pay the workshop fee, please discuss an alternative arrangement with our team when you make a booking.
Note: Content
Salvos Schools workshops often involve discussions on topics such as inequality, financial hardship, homelessness and other forms of social injustice. The workshops have been developed with sensitivity and safety in mind. Whilst conversations about experiences of hardship are essential for learning, growth and social change, some participants may find the content emotionally challenging. All workshops commence with notification that participation is voluntary. Throughout the sessions we endeavour to create a respectful, inclusive and safe space for social justice conversations and always provide reminders of where and how to access supports. Participants are welcome to seek support at any time. If you have any concerns or would like further information, please reach out to our team.