ANZAC Day, observed annually on April 25th, is a deeply significant occasion for Australians and New Zealanders. It is a time to pause, reflect, and remember the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) who served at Gallipoli in World War I, as well as all those who have followed in their footsteps. From the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific to modern-day peacekeeping missions around the globe.
As homeschooling families, we have a unique opportunity to explore this important day in a meaningful, age-appropriate, and engaging way. This list of ANZAC Day Activities and lesson ideas provides a curated collection of resources, hands-on activities, and book recommendations to help your family understand the historical context, the trans-Tasman bond, and the lasting legacy of the ANZACs.
Helpful Online ANZAC Day Resources
To begin your learning journey, explore these valuable online resources. There are many high-quality materials available to suit every learning style:
Essential Portals & Historical Records
- The Australian War Memorial (AWM): Access a treasure trove of historical accounts, images, videos, and activity ideas.
- Anzac Portal (DVA): Understand the contemporary significance of ANZAC Day and the symbolism behind traditions like the Dawn Service.
- Auckland Museum – ANZAC Resources: A vital resource for the New Zealand perspective, featuring videos on the “Coming Home” experience.
- Archives New Zealand (Flickr): Excellent for high-resolution historical photos for student projects.
Lesson Plans & Classroom Activities
- RSL Education: Engage in interactive games and activities designed to teach the core values of the ANZAC Spirit.
- AnzacDay.org: Practical, hands-on activities easily adapted for the home environment.
Watch & Learn: Behind The News (BTN)
- The History of ANZAC Day: A great kids' news overview of how the tradition began.
- The Gallipoli Story: A deeper look at the 1915 campaign (best for older children).
- The Last Post: Explaining the history and emotion behind the bugle call.
Recognising Indigenous ANZACs
It is important to acknowledge the profound contribution of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Māori service members. Despite facing significant discrimination and lack of citizenship rights at home, thousands of Indigenous men and women enlisted to serve. For many, the “ANZAC Spirit” of mateship offered a rare sense of equality on the battlefield that was often denied to them upon their return.
Explore these dedicated resources:
- AIATSIS: Serving Our Country: Incredible personal stories and historical context regarding Indigenous Australians in the military.
Bringing ANZAC History to life with Hands On Activities
For Younger Children (Preschool – Lower Primary)
- Poppy Craft: Create simple red paper poppies as a visual symbol of remembrance.
- Bake ANZAC Biscuits: Use the traditional RSL recipe and discuss how these treats were sent to soldiers.
- Wreath Making: Construct a simple greenery wreath to understand the act of commemoration.
For Older Children (Upper Primary – Middle School)
- Creating a Diorama: Visually represent a scene from ANZAC history, such as the trenches or a hospital ship.
- Mapping Gallipoli: Enhance geographical awareness by studying the difficult terrain of the Gallipoli peninsula.
- Letters of Appreciation: Foster empathy by writing letters to current service members or veterans through local RSL or RSA branches.
For High School Students
- Analysing Primary Sources: Examine firsthand accounts, diaries, and letters from the National Archives of Australia or Archives New Zealand, images and documents.
- Debating the Legend: Discuss the evolving meaning of the ANZAC legend and how it shapes our national identity today.
- War Poetry & Art: Compare the romanticised views of early war poetry with the gritty realism of later works.
To bring your unit study to a close, consider attending a local Dawn Service or ANZAC Day march. It’s a powerful opportunity for children to see the traditions they’ve learned about, like the Last Post and the wearing of poppies, honoured by their own community.
ANZAC Book Recommendations for Children of All Ages
| Age Group | Title | Author |
| Younger (Picture Books) | ANZAC Ted | Belinda Landsberry |
| Simpson and His Donkey | Mark Greenwood | |
| My Grandad Marches on ANZAC Day | Catriona Hoy | |
| Older (Fiction/Non-Fiction) | A Day To Remember | Jackie French |
| Alfred’s War (Indigenous focus) | Rachel Bin Sallah | |
| ANZAC Sons | Allison Marlow Patterson | |
| High School | Soldier Boy | Anthony Hill |
| A Rose For The ANZAC Boys | Jackie French | |
| Gallipoli | Les Carlyon |
Weaving It All Together
Explore the online resources, engage in the activities that resonate with your family, and delve into the recommended books. Facilitate discussions about the historical events, the sacrifices made, and the enduring qualities of the ANZAC spirit, courage, mateship, and perseverance.
By learning together, with a variety of ANZAC Day activities and conversations, we help our children develop a deeper appreciation for those who have served and those who continue to serve today.
Lest We Forget.
*Know of a resource that should be included in this list? Please reach out to us so we can get it added for all to enjoy.
