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Citizenship has been a school curriculum subject since 2002. For early years and primary, citizenship, which is non-statutory at this age, aims to develop children's social skills and understanding of others whilst sowing the seed to encourage participation in society. For secondary, the statutory programme of study sets out to provide young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding of what it is to be an active citizen. It aims for young people to be aware of and understand democracy, government, justice and the law, human rights and social issues, along with having the ability to develop into competent citizens. Such citizens are able to organise their own finances, analyse information to solve problems and make good choices allowing them to contribute to society. However, in reality, teaching a child citizenship has been around a lot longer than 2002 and most parents or carers would want their child to develop into responsible citizens. It is hoped therefore that these resources are both useful for teachers and educators following curriculum specifications and those parents or young people keen to understand how our society works and the importance placed on each individual to play their part. Further information can be found from the Association of Citizenship Teaching (ACT) (www.teachingcitizenship.org.uk).

Fortunately, citizenship learning and teaching has been embraced by many important organisations and institutions, including the British Library, the Economist and Oxfam, and these can be found in the Learning Resources section below. The areas or issues that children and young people are encouraged to have an understanding of are divided into: Animal Welfare; Democracy, Voting and Justice; Farming, Food and Water (to consider food and water poverty, ethical consumerism and food production); Human Rights and Civil Rights; Digital Rights; Equality and Inequality; and Immigration and Refugees. These resources are vast and varied and provide a rich source of facts, discussion and debate.

Information

Christian Aid: primary and secondary school resources

www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/schools/primary-teaching-resources

www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/schools/secondary-teaching-resources

Excellent teaching resources for pupils to explore and consider world issues and their own role as a global citizen.