In 2001, in response to the newly launched Holocaust Memorial Day, two synagogues in Northwood, north-west London, joined together to create educational events for local secondary school students. The aim was to enable students to hear first-hand the testimonies of those who had survived the Holocaust, and from this to gain an understanding of the need to resist all forms of racism, discrimination and bullying in order to build a better, safer future for us all.  From a handful of local schools attending, the programme grew steadily over the ensuing 20 years, with over 35,000 secondary school students attending our workshops.

In 2020 the fully-fledged charity, Holocaust Learning UK was registered.  In 2023 the charity established their Advisory Council, which provides support and advice to HLUK.  Members of the Advisory Council comprise leading educators, historians and experts in their fields which are all relevant to the activities of Holocaust Learning UK

As the coronavirus pandemic took hold, it was apparent  that Holocaust Learning UK could not hold live events.  In order to continue to reach out to secondary school students, in 2020 they embarked on an ambitious project to produce a suite of educational films for showing in the school environment.

Ten survivors were interviewed in order to use their testimony in the films.

Since 2021, some 250,000 students have viewed these films.

The films  provide students with the essential historical facts of the Holocaust, together with memorable personal testimony and an understanding of the Holocaust’s contemporary relevance. The films are all distinct and each film offers unique and differentiated learning opportunities for students.  The films have been made with advice and historical and editorial contributions from the Holocaust Educational Trust.

The films and all supporting resources for teachers are provided at no charge to participating schools.