This session equips teachers and school leaders with the tools to inspire students to move from bystander behaviour to Upstander action. Through an interactive workshop format, including small group discussions and collaborative activities, participants will explore case studies based on real and relevant experiences.

Participants will be introduced to the Pyramid of Hate as a framework to understand how bias, stereotyping, and prejudice can escalate into discrimination and violence. This model helps illuminate the broader social impact of seemingly minor behaviours and highlights the importance of early intervention.

The session also explores the psychology of the bystander effect and how empowering students to become Upstanders can shift group dynamics and reduce harm. Teachers will learn practical, age-appropriate strategies to share with students—encouraging safe, effective responses to bullying, exclusion, and injustice.

By the end of the workshop, educators will feel more confident supporting students to recognise harmful behaviours, challenge social norms, and stand up for others in meaningful ways.

Inspire and empower your students with the skills to become Upstanders—and help create safer, more inclusive school communities.