Schools
Inspiring a generation of compassionate changemakers through real stories, learning, and impact.
At JRS Australia, we believe that students are not just leaders of tomorrow – they are powerful advocates for justice today.
That’s why we partner with schools to inspire compassion, raise awareness, and build solidarity with refugees and people seeking asylum.
By engaging with JRS Australia, your school can make a real difference to the lives of forcibly displaced people.
Through learning, reflection, and action, students have the opportunity to stand in solidarity with people seeking safety in our local community, and become part of a movement for a more inclusive and welcoming Australia.
Schools across Australia are helping build communities where everyone is welcomed, valued and able to belong.
Each year, students, teacher, parents and staff join forces to create real change for families in our local community!
40+
Schools engaged every year across Sydney, and interstate.
9400+
Students inspired to take action for a more welcoming Australia.
5,600+
Food parcels donated through the Schools community.
Does your school want to get involved?
There are so many ways your school community can walk alongside refugees and people seeking asylum – from a school workshop, to an excursion to the JRS office, running a food drive or fundraiser, or taking up your own campaign for change.
Thinking of running a Food Drive?
Schools can collect non-perishable groceries and household essentials, or supermarket gift vouchers, which give families the dignity and flexibility to choose what they need most.
week, the JRS Australia Foodbank supports 200 families seeking asylum with essential groceries and household items — families who often have limited or no access to Federal Government support while they seek protection in our community.
A school Food Drive is one of the most practical and immediate ways your school can stand in solidarity with these families.
Contact schools@jrs.org.au to learn more, or visit our Foodbank page to find the shopping list and delivery instructions!
Celebrating Refugee Week at JRS
Refugee Week is celebrated each year in June. In 2027, Refugee Week will take place from 20-26 June.
This special week is a time to honour the strength and courage of people who have sought safety in Australia, and to celebrate the contributions they make to our communities. It is one of the most meaningful dates in the school calendar to engage students with questions of justice, belonging, and what it means to welcome those seeking safety.
Each year in Term 2, JRS Australia releases a free suite of school resources and runs a Student Creative Competition to help students learn and express their own solidarity with refugees and people seeking asylum.
View the 2026 Refugee Week Resources and read more about the 2026 Student Creative Competition here.
Join our Back to School campaign!
Children seeking asylum face many barriers getting ready for the school year. You can help us make sure local families have everything they need in time for the first day of school!
Hear from other students and teachers.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
By participating in the JRS Australia Schools Program, your school community becomes part of something bigger: a national network committed to building hope and belonging.
Ready to inspire your students and take action together?
For more information or to speak with our Schools and Community Engagement Officer, please contact: schools@jrs.org.au
