The Crocus Project
Overview
The Crocus Project is intended for pupils aged eleven or twelve years.
The Holocaust Educational Trust of Ireland provides schools with yellow crocus bulbs to plant in autumn in memory of the one and a half million Jewish children and thousands of other children who died in the Holocaust.
The yellow flowers recall the yellow Stars of David all Jews were forced to wear under Nazi rule.
The activity presents an opportunity to introduce young children to
the subject of the Holocaust. It is a tangible way to stimulate discussion and
create awareness about discrimination.
In Ireland, the crocus blooms at the end of January – around the time of
international Holocaust Memorial Day (27 January). In other countries Spring
comes later but the crocuses can be planted indoors in flowerboxes or bowls.
When people admire the flowers, the children can explain what they represent.
The Trust makes available guidelines and information which may be of
assistance to teachers during this activity. These resources complement
existing material on racism and interculturalism. The children’s involvement in planting the bulbs and watching the flowers grow encourages ongoing learning about the importance of tolerance and respect.
Information & Guidelines for the Crocus Project
Please find below an English and Irish Teacher's Handbook which is available to download. The Handbooks provide information on the following topics:
- Background to the Holocaust
- Why we plant yellow Crocuses
- Planting Crocuses
- Classroom activities
- Tips for Teachers
- Key Words
Download: Letter inviting schools to participate in THe Crocus Project
Download: Crocus posters GAEILGE.pdf (PDF | Filesize: 2114KB)
Download: Crocus Teacher's Handbook (PDF | Filesize: 2463KB)
