Lesson Overview
| Duration | 45 minutes |
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| Key Stage | KS2 (Years 3-6) |
|---|
| Subject Links | PSHE, Citizenship, SMSC |
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| Resources Needed | Pupil handouts, Quiz, Presentation slides |
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Learning Objectives
- Understand that carrying a knife is dangerous and against the law
- Know that telling an adult is the right and brave thing to do
- Recognise situations that feel unsafe and know how to get help
- Understand that walking away is always the best choice
- Know who to talk to if they feel worried or scared
Key Information
- Every year thousands of people in England and Wales are hurt by knives
- More than half of knife crime victims are young people
- Carrying a knife makes you MORE likely to be hurt, not less
- You can go to prison just for carrying a knife - even if you never use it
Legal Framework
- It is against the law to carry a knife in public
- It is against the law to bring a knife to school
- If you carry a knife and hurt someone you could go to prison for a very long time
- The police can stop and search anyone they think might be carrying a weapon
Lesson Plan
5 mins Settling Activity
Ask: what makes somewhere feel safe? Gather responses on the board without judgment.
10 mins What is Knife Crime?
Simple explanation using age-appropriate language. Emphasise that knives are tools, not toys, and that carrying one as a weapon is illegal.
10 mins Myth Busters
Address the myth that knives keep you safe. Use the analogy: if you carry an umbrella it doesn't stop it raining — it just gets in the way.
10 mins Scenarios
Read out simple scenarios. Pupils hold up green/red cards. Discuss as a class.
10 mins Who Can Help?
Make a class list of trusted adults: teacher, parent, carer, police, Childline. Emphasise there is always someone to talk to.
5 mins Plenary
Each pupil completes the sentence: 'If I felt unsafe I would...' on their handout.
⚠️ Safeguarding Considerations
- Some children may have witnessed violence at home or in their community
- Be sensitive to pupils who become distressed or unusually quiet
- If a pupil discloses knowledge of a weapon, report to your DSL immediately — do not investigate yourself
- Avoid graphic descriptions or imagery — the focus should be on safety and help-seeking
If a pupil makes a disclosure during this session, follow your school's safeguarding procedures and refer to your DSL immediately.
Key Messages
- Knives are dangerous — they can hurt you even if you carry them 'for safety'
- It is always right to tell a trusted adult if you see or know about a knife
- Walking away is the bravest and smartest thing you can do
- You will never be in trouble for asking for help
- Childline (0800 1111) is available any time, day or night
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 |