Humanitarianism and the Red Cross teaching resources
Free teaching resources to help young people consider humanitarianism in a global context, and encourage compassion and the desire to help others.
Explore humanitarianism with our free lesson plans and teaching materials, which are ideal for PSHE and Citizenship teachers.
Get primary and secondary teaching ideas about:
- what it means to be human
- what is a humanitarian act
- why humanitarian aid is important
- the work of the Red Cross in the UK and abroad
For questions or feedback about these resources, contact us at redcrosseducation@redcross.org.uk
A lesson plan to explore the concept of humanity with primary pupils. Suitable for ages 7 to 11.
In the news
Humanitarian crisis in Mozambique
What do people need following the natural disasters in Mozambique, and how can they recover? Lesson plan suitable for ages 7 to 11.
Venezuela: Humanitarian aid and neutrality
Discuss the humanitarian situation in Venezuela and the principle of neutrality. Lesson plan suitable for ages 11 to 16.
Topical teaching resources exploring the news from a humanitarian perspective. Real-life examples through film clips, photographs and stories linked to the news to prompt discussion and to develop critical thinking and media literacy.
Humanitarianism in action
Knife crime: living peacefully and avoiding conflict
Discuss how we can deal with challenges and build peaceful communities. Lesson plan suitable for ages 11 to 16.
Defusing conflict
A guide for teachers on how to defuse tension and reduce conflict in difficult situations, with an activity idea for learners (suitable for learners aged 11 to 16).
How to talk to children and young people about race and racism
Our guide will give you confidence to talk to children and young people about race and racism and develop their understanding and awareness. Suitable for learners aged 3 to 18.
Emotional support in a crisis
Advice and an activity for teachers to use with pupils on how best to support someone who is upset. A quick activity suitable for learners aged 11 to 19.
The Red Cross
The Red Cross emblem
An assembly role-play activity exploring the role of the Red Cross emblem, especially during conflict. Assembly activity suitable for learners aged 11 to 16.
Humanitarianism and the Red Cross lesson plan
Secondary school lesson plan about humanitarianism and how it guides the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Suitable for learners aged 14 to 19.
Further learning
An assembly kit exploring the film The Power of Humanity and celebrating the work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Lesson plan with a video suitable for learners aged 11 to 19.
You might also be interested in...
Refugees and migration teaching resources
Use these free teaching materials to promote compassion, informed discussion, and an understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and migrants around the world.
International humanitarian law and conflict teaching resources
Free teaching resources and relevant case studies to help students understand international humanitarian law and the effects of conflict.
Empower your teaching with free CPD
Sign up for our new Continuing Professional Development programme, designed for educators working with young people aged 11-18.
Kindness and wellbeing teaching resources
Boost students' wellbeing and build resilience by celebrating the power of kindness with our range of kindness resources.