Understanding British Values

Context and Framework

Class: Entry Level 3 (Ages 16-25)
Subject: PSHE – British Values
Class size: 8 students
Duration: 60 minutes
Curriculum Reference:
This lesson aligns with the PSHE Education Programme of Study for England (2021) focusing on "Living in the wider world," particularly the statutory guidance on British values: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
(PSHE Association, DfE statutory guidance 2021)

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Learning Objectives (WALT)

• WALT understand and describe the key British values.
• WALT recognise how British values influence daily life and community.
• WALT demonstrate respect for diversity and individual liberty.
• WALT communicate how to show respect and tolerance in their own lives.

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Success Criteria

• I can name at least three British values.
• I can explain why democracy, respect, and tolerance are important.
• I can give examples of how to respect people with different beliefs.
• I can participate in activities that show kindness and fairness.

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Resources

• Large printed cards with each British value written clearly (Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect and Tolerance)
• Picture scenarios showing different social situations reflecting British values
• Whiteboard and markers
• Sentence starters for written or spoken reflection
• Emoji cards (happy, confused, unsure) for expressions during group work
• Visual timetable and clear step-by-step instructions

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction and Settling In (10 minutes)

• Warm greeting and register.
• Quick ice-breaker: “One word to describe what being fair means.”
• Introduce WALT and success criteria in simple language.
• Briefly explain what "British values" are - the “rules and qualities that help everyone live together.”

Differentiation:

• Use visual symbols for each British value shown on cards.
• Support from staff for students needing communication aid.

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2. Exploring British Values (15 minutes)

• Introduce each British value card one by one, using simple definitions:

  • Democracy: Everyone gets a say.
  • Rule of Law: Following the rules keeps us safe.
  • Individual Liberty: You can make choices safely.
  • Mutual Respect and Tolerance: Being kind and understanding to everyone.

• Use picture scenarios to illustrate each value (e.g., voting for a class activity = democracy; lining up patiently = rule of law).

• Group discussion: What does this mean to you? How do you show respect or fairness?

Differentiation:

• Pair students with a peer or tutor to discuss and express ideas, using sentence starters like “I think...”, “I feel...”.
• Use simplified sentences and allow alternative responses (e.g., gestures or drawings).

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3. Practical Activity: Role Play (20 minutes)

• Split class into small groups (2-3 students).
• Each group is given a simple real-life situation (e.g., deciding where to go for lunch, someone being left out, someone choosing their clothes).
• Students decide how to use British values to solve problems in the scenario.
• Role play the scenario with others watching.
• After each role play, the class discusses which British values were used and why.

Differentiation:

• Provide visual prompts and scripts for students with communication needs.
• For more advanced learners, encourage adding more complex vocabulary and reasoning.

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4. Reflection and Personal Connection (10 minutes)

• Use sentence starters on the board:
  • “I show respect when I…”
  • “One way I can be fair is…”
• Students choose to write, draw, or verbally share their responses.
• Quick round using emoji cards to express: How do you feel learning about British values?

Extension Activity:

• Advanced learners can write a short story or script about a day using British values, imagining they are community leaders.

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5. Summary and Plenary (5 minutes)

• Recap the British values by holding up the cards again and asking quick-fire questions:
  • “What is democracy?”
  • “Why do we need rules?”
  • “What does respect mean to you?”
• Praise participation and highlight examples of good listening and respect shown during the lesson.

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Assessment

• Formative through observation during discussions and role plays.
• Check for verbal or written evidence in reflection task showing understanding of British values.
• Use emoji feedback to gauge emotional engagement and understanding.

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Differentiation Summary

Learner Type	Strategy
Communication difficulties	Visual aids, sentence starters, paired discussion
More able students	Extended role play, written reflection stories
Behavioural needs	Clear structure, visual timetable, regular prompts to stay on task
Sensory learners	Hands-on role-play, use of emoji cards

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Notes for Teacher

• Adapt pace according to students’ engagement levels – keep activities short and varied.
• Use positive reinforcement to encourage shy or reluctant students to express opinions.
• Keep language simple but model key vocabulary clearly.
• Connect examples to students’ own experiences for relevance (e.g., family, community, workplace).

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This lesson plan invites learners to actively engage with British values through practical, accessible and meaningful activities, supporting their development as respectful and confident members of society.