The “Bigger Than This” (BTT) programme is a youth-led anti-racism initiative piloted in Victorian secondary schools, co-developed by VicHealth and the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC). Designed with input from young people aged 15–25, BTT aims to reduce the harm of racism by fostering racial literacy, promoting mental wellbeing, and empowering students to take anti-racist action.
Delivered as a 100-minute school incursion, the programme combines shared language tools, real-life stories, and creative activities such as posters, raps, and role-plays. Facilitated by young adults with lived experience of racism, BTT provides a safe, engaging space for Year 9 students to explore racism’s impact and learn practical strategies like the “5Ds” of anti-racism.
The evaluation, led by Victoria University, found that BTT significantly enhanced students’ understanding of racism and its mental health effects. It also highlighted the value of creative, collaborative learning and the importance of facilitators’ relatability. Staff and students praised the programme’s relevance, accessibility, and emotional impact. Recommendations include expanding the programme, refining its structure, and integrating it into broader school strategies. Overall, BTT demonstrates strong potential as a scalable, impactful model for anti-racism education in schools.
