Act of courage
Think about what qualities motivate us to help others and consider the importance of personal safety while helping.

Age:
11 - 16
Subjects:
PSHE, Tutor time
Topics:
Newsthink, Disaster and emergencies
Type:
Lesson plan
On 26 May 2018, Malian immigrant Mamoudou Gassama made headlines after his dramatic climb up a building to rescue a young child hanging from a balcony. He has been praised for his bravery, as he focused on trying to save the boy before he fell.
This activity looks at what motivates people to help, the qualities of a helper and other ways of helping while keeping yourself safe.
Resource overview
1. Starter activity: Balcony rescue
Review the dramatic event and watch the video.
2. Discussion: Thinking instinctively
Learners consider what it means to think instinctively, what led Mamoudou to help, what the risks were and alternative, safer ways of helping.
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