When separating year 7 to teach girls about periods, my colleague said, “What shall we do with the boys?” Well, I think we should teach them about periods, too. These two lessons aim to teach boys in a sensitive, informative and (sometimes) humorous way about periods. I created it after I heard about the success of teaching boys in Indonesia about periods and period poverty. It details the basic science behind a period; explains period products; looks at language surrounding periods; plus, we bust myths and facts and participate in activities which prompt adolescent boys to think empathetically about their peers (or sisters, cousins, etc.) who may be going through their period for the first time. The second lesson looks more at the physical (sometimes embarrassing) problems that boys may face when going through puberty. I taught it to year 7 and they really enjoyed it! I hope you do too.

One (or two, if you like) lessons for KS3 pupils, on how we are all different and the importance of tolerating difference. This lesson prompts students to see diversity as a positive thing. The final task can be extended to the following lesson and take up a whole lesson itself, if you have time in your calendar.

These slides, activities, stories and clips took 3 whole lessons to cover with my year 8 class, but you may be able to get through it in just two. A sensitive approach to discussing loss and bereavement in the classroom. Obviously, check that no child in your class is currently grieving and, if they are, talk to them, their head of year and / or their guardian before you deliver this set of lessons.