The initial route into work on Global citizenship at Carelton came from an interest in world affairs and undertaking UNICEF’s RRS award. We have created a progressive programme to teaching Children’s Rights from P1-P7 which is further enhanced by a series of focus weeks throughout the year; Fair Trade fortnight, Financial fortnight, STEM week, Eco week and HWB week. Our aim is for all children to participate and understand how they can impact on global issues through local citizenship. Built in to our programme are opportunities for Learner’s voice, active learning and experiences for making decisions about social justice and equality.
“We have created a progressive programme to teaching Children’s Rights from P1-P7.”
Interdisciplinary learning
Teachers planning reflects Rights and Citizenship within interdisciplinary contexts for each class. Pupils have a voice in their learning as the curriculum allows for flexibility through experiences. Our links with other schools, businesses and Universities provide real life learning exchanges. One example is our Living Local, Thinking Global annual project and showcase in partnership with St Andrews Uni. Students work alongside pupils and staff resulting in a Fife Showcase for parents and stakeholders.
We endeavour to have guest speakers at our weekly assemblies to promote skills, employability and raise awareness of our place in the world through the world of work. As Ambassadors for UNICEF, we use their online resources and only recently took part in the World’s Largest Lesson to raise awareness of the 17 newly agreed goals by the U.N.
“Our aim is for all children to participate and understand how they can impact on global issues.”
Future citizens
Does this practice have impact? Absolutely! Our pupils are more aware of the world they live in with all its opportunities and inequalities. They are developing an understanding which we hope will help them become caring, considerate citizens of the future. It’s a never ending journey which we are constantly revisiting and refreshing to meet the needs of our changing world and the issues around us. Being aware is being prepared - or at least we think so at Carleton.
