Lesson Overview
| Duration | 45 minutes |
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| Key Stage | KS2 (Years 3-6) |
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| Subject Links | PSHE, Citizenship, SMSC |
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| Resources Needed | Pupil handouts, Quiz, Presentation slides |
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Learning Objectives
- Understand that some adults try to trick children into doing unsafe things
- Recognise the difference between a genuine friend and someone who wants to use them
- Know that it is never a child's fault if an adult tries to exploit them
- Identify trusted adults they can speak to if something feels wrong
- Understand what to do if someone asks them to keep a secret that worries them
Key Information
- Thousands of children across the UK are exploited through county lines each year
- Some children are as young as 9 or 10 when they are first approached
- Children are often targeted because they seem lonely or are having a hard time at home
- It is never a child's fault — adults who do this are breaking the law
Legal Framework
- Adults who force or trick children into carrying drugs or weapons are committing a very serious crime
- Criminals who exploit children can go to prison for many years
- If a child is forced or tricked into doing something, the child is a victim — not in trouble
- The police and social workers are there to help, not to get children into trouble
Lesson Plan
5 mins Starter
Ask: what is the difference between a good secret (e.g. a surprise party) and a worrying secret (e.g. someone asks you to hide something)? Discuss briefly.
10 mins Tricky People
Introduce the concept of 'tricky people' — adults who seem friendly but want children to do unsafe things. Emphasise this is different from 'stranger danger'.
10 mins Recognising the Signs
Simple illustrated scenarios. What feels right? What feels wrong? Use thumbs up/thumbs down responses to engage the class.
10 mins It's Never Your Fault
Firmly establish: if an adult tries to involve a child in something dangerous, the child is never to blame. Reinforce help-seeking without shame.
10 mins Who Can Help?
Build a class 'help map': trusted adults in school and at home. Discuss how to tell someone even if you're scared.
5 mins Plenary
Complete the sentence on their handout: 'If something felt wrong, I would tell...'
⚠️ Safeguarding Considerations
- Some children may already be in exploitative situations — watch for signs of distress or unusual knowledge
- Avoid language that implies children have done something wrong if they have been exploited
- This topic may trigger disclosures — follow your school's safeguarding procedure immediately
- Do not attempt to investigate or ask probing questions if a child discloses — refer to DSL
If a pupil makes a disclosure during this session, follow your school's safeguarding procedures and refer to your DSL immediately.
Key Messages
- Some adults try to trick children into doing dangerous things — this is called exploitation
- If something feels wrong, it probably is — trust your feelings
- It is NEVER your fault if an adult tries to involve you in something unsafe
- A real friend (adult or peer) will never ask you to keep a secret that worries you
- You will never be in trouble for telling a trusted adult
Support Resources
| Organisation | Contact | Purpose |
|---|
| Childline | 0800 1111 | 24/7 support for young people |
| Crimestoppers | 0800 555 111 | 100% anonymous reporting |
| CEOP | ceop.police.uk | Report online exploitation |
| NSPCC | 0808 800 5000 | Child protection advice |
| Emergency | 999 | Immediate danger |