Whilst it is tempting and easy to assume that behaviours relating to sexual violence and sexual harassment are only an issue for our secondary colleagues, those working with primary aged children must be aware that the attitudes which form the basis of later sexism, misogyny, harassment and violence are formed in earlier years.
Following recent updates to Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), this Primary Safer Spaces Toolkit is intended to be used in addition to planned PSHE lessons to deepen children’s understanding of sexist language, attitudes and behaviours and their consequences. It also aims to enable them to practise challenging these attitudes, seeking help from trusted adults, sustaining safe environments and building healthy relationships with their peers based on mutual respect and trust.
Who is the action toolkit for?
- Teachers working with Key Stage Two class groups in RSE or PSHE lessons.
- Adults leading student councils or action groups.
- Schools leaders planning training for staff and governors.
What is in the action toolkit?
- Background information concerning the national picture and current developments.
- A series of discussion based activities, which use a range of learning methodologies, to raise awareness, identify local issues and prompt change in your school.
- Links to associated documentation and teaching activities.
This toolkit also supports schools with listening to pupil voice, building awareness, and engaging in reflection as part of a whole school approach to preventing sexist attitudes and behaviours which cause others to feel unsafe. It will enable young people and staff to devise and carry out actions to improve awareness and reduce incidents in their own school.
The pack is available as a .pdf and costs £25. To order the Safer Spaces Action Toolkit:
Email pshe@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
Phone: 01480 376256
