School Assemblies

60th anniversary celebrations for the end of world war two

The second war was one of the most traumatic times in recent history. In 2005, Britain will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II. Commemorations will take place across the country on 10 July, a single day falling between the anniversaries of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) and Victory against Japan Day (VJ Day).

This year 3 — 6 assembly aims to:

raise awareness of key events during the second world war
recognise the contribution of those who fought in the services and the sacrifices made by the nation during a time of war
make connections between the second world war and world events today

A missing child

This assembly for Y7-Y13 tackles the need for information to trace a missing person as well as the emotional impact on the community. It offers guidance on what to do when a missing person is seen, as well as tips for ensuring personal safety at a worrying time. This assembly aims:

to give pupils information and dispel rumours
to find out any further information to help the police in their enquiries
to help pupils to deal with this incident

A world of many peoples: challenging racism

This assembly for KS1 and KS2 deals with racism. Discrimination is illustrated by a random distribution of treats. A story The girl with green hair highlights the unfairness of judging people on their hair or skin colour. The assembly aims to encourage pupils

to think about differences and similarities between themselves and others
to begin to understand that treating people differently on the grounds of race or appearance is wrong
to understand that our differences make the world a more interesting place to live in

April Fool's Day

This April Fool's Day assembly should be delivered on April 1. It introduces students to the origins of the day and offers a fun look at jokes played from the 1800s to the present. Students are asked to follow instructions on a worksheet which turns out to be a light-hearted joke. The assembly underlines that

all pranks should be harmless
the person who is the target of an April Fool's joke should enjoy it too

Arson

This assembly looks at the effects of arson within the school environment. It serves mainly as a caution to those who may inadvertently start a fire through boredom or thrill seeking. It focuses on the consequences of fire setting and the dangers of experimenting with fire on the school premises.

The assembly aims to

encourage students to think about the effects of arson within their own school environment
help students understand that big fires start small, and that arson is a criminal offence
highlight fire hazards within school

Behaviour

This assembly is an opportunity to explore the meaning and the consequences of 'behaviour'. This topic is universally applicable in schools, but may have particular relevance after specific incidences of misbehaviour affecting the whole school.

The aims are to:

explore the meaning of the words 'behave' and 'behaviour'
consider the consequences of our behaviour on those around us
encourage students to consider their own personal code of behaviour

Belonging to a community

This Y7-Y13 assembly reflects on what it means to belong to a community - the benefits it offers its members, and their responsibilities in relation to it, and the need for a sense of community in schools. The assembly aims:

to foster an empathy with others in the school
to emphasise the need for harmony within a community.

Bike Week

This Y7-Y11 assembly aims to make students think more seriously about the benefits of a form of transport that we make take for granted - cycling.

Black History Month (October)

This Y1-Y6 assembly for October, Black History Month in the UK, tells how some stories from black history have been lost or downplayed over the years. It is about the need to bring them back to the fore so that they can be used to inspire current generations. Other themes include determination and helping people. The aim of the assembly is:

to raise awareness of black history
to emphasise the need to unearth stories from the past to teach and enrich the present

Black History Month (October)

October is Black History month, and this assembly reflects the history of black people in Britain from the time of Henry VIII to the present and their significant but generally unrecognised contribution to the nation. The assembly aims:

to make young people aware of the need for Black History Month
to help students to understand the issues behind denying a group of people access to their history
to encourage young people to make a contribution to the celebration of Black History Month

Bodhi Day (December 8)

This assembly tells the story of how the Buddha tried to find the source of suffering in the world. It also brings out the principle of thinking and meditating as being an important method to solve our problems.

To understand why the Buddha acted in the way he did
To learn about Buddhist beliefs
To learn that Buddhists follow their founder's principles

Bullying

This assembly tackles bullying. The presentation uses news stories and celebrities' accounts of being bullied to define bullying and show its effects. The seriousness of bullying is underlined with video case studies. The assembly aims

to define bullying and show the effects
to develop shared viewpoints about this sensitive and important issue
to offer support to those who have experienced bullying
to promote tolerance and respect for others

Burglary, theft in school

This assembly for KS1 and KS2 responds to an incident of theft or burglar in school. It takes the approach that thieving is a choice, considers the thoughts of perpetrators before stealing and the consequences of stealing. Pupils should:

learn that stealing is wrong and punishable
understand why stealing is negative and antisocial
empathise with those who are stolen from
understand that stealing is a choice

Burglary, theft or vandalism

This whole-school assembly responds to an incident of burglary, theft or vandalism. It examines possible reactions in the school community, looks at the effect the incident has on the school and its members, and the importance of information in finding the people responsible. The assembly aims to help students to:

appreciate the seriousness of burglary, theft and vandalism
consider their responsibility in making others aware if they know any information which could lead to the people responsible for the incident and facing the consequences of their actions
understand how burglary / theft / vandalism affects all members of the school community

Celebrating poetry on National Poetry Day (October 9)

This whole-school assembly celebrates poetry on National Poetry Day, October 9. Pupils participate in making a "poetry kit" and in composing a crazy poem using words, rhyme and meter. Pupils should

think about the different forms of poetry
begin to understand that poetry can be used to express ideas and feelings

Children's Art Day (July 1)

Children's Art Day is held across the country on July 1. It is an opportunity for children to sample and enjoy the wide range of visual arts.

This year 3 — 6 assembly encourages children to:

Consider the way in which art can be used to communicate meaning
Explore a range of art materials, techniques and artists
Celebrate the enjoyment that can be gained by taking part in art activities and experiencing the work of others

Chinese New Year

This Y7-Y13 assembly deals with Chinese New Year mid-January to early February (dates vary). It provides an insight into a festival celebrated by over one billion Chinese people. The main presentation is a short narrated mime with 12 students to tell how the years got their animal names in the Chinese calendar. The assembly aims:

to inform students about the significance of the Chinese New Year, particularly to people in the UK with a Chinese background
to inform students about the traditions associated with Chinese New Year
to enable students to gain an appreciation of ethnic diversity in the UK

Chinese New Year

This Y1-Y6 assembly looks at the celebrations of Chinese New Year (mid-January to early February, dates vary) and how these traditions from China have been exported around the world wherever Chinese people have settled. The assembly aims to:

show that we live in a diverse world
encourage children to share their beliefs and value the views of others
learn about the legend of how the Chinese came to name their years
explore some of the customs associated with Chinese New Year

Christmas story

This last assembly before Christmas focuses on the birth of Jesus. It reminds the school community that for Christians, Christmas celebrates the birth of the son of God. Pupils tell the story of the nativity. The assembly aims:

to retell the story of the nativity simply
to remind pupils that this time celebrates the birth of Jesus
to inject a note of peaceful celebration into the bustle of the festivities

Coping with worry

This assembly for KS1 and KS2 looks at ways of coping with worry and stress. Pupils are encouraged to think of coping strategies for the stressed presenter, and to recognise the value of talking to others about your problems. The assembly aims to help pupils:

begin to learn to identify symptoms and triggers of stress in themselves
learn basic methods of dealing with stress
know that there are people they can talk to about issues that are worrying them

D-Day Secondary

This Y7-Y11 assembly looks at the historical importance and significance of D-Day, June 6, 1944, and the human cost behind this key event of the Second World War. It seeks to point out the qualities of responsibility and commitment demonstrated by those involved - qualities which are worth emulating. The assembly aims:

to increase students' awareness of the historical importance and significance of D-Day
to encourage students to consider and value the responsibility and commitment shown by those involved

Dealing with bullying

This assembly for Y3-Y6 looks at ways to deal with bullying. A series of small role plays are offered to help pupils recognise different forms of bullying behaviour in themselves as well as in others. Pupils are encouraged to take the first step and tell someone if they are being bullied. The assembly aims to:

Answer the question: what is wrong with bullying?
Ensure that children understand why they should never participate in bullying situations
Encourage children who are victims of bullying to tell a responsible adult or friend
Encourage children to support other people who are being bullied

Death in the school community

This YR-Y6 assembly remembers and celebrates the life of the individual who has died. This assembly aims to:

express the feelings of sadness and loss experienced by the school community
help young pupils come to terms with the difficult concept of dying
celebrate the life of the individual with anecdotes and stories that focus on happy memories shared by all
offer thoughts and prayers to the grieving

Death of a member of the school community

This whole-school assembly marks the death of a member of the school community. Starting with a poem by Ted Hughes it considers how grief touches everyone, whether it is widespread as with Princess Diana, or smaller scale but deeply personal. The assembly aims:

to celebrate the life of the person who has died
to explore and seek ways in which we can deal with and explore our own feelings
to recognise their loss to the school community and find a way to remember the person who has died

Disability issues

This Y7-Y13 assembly focuses on the theme of disability by introducing students to the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act. We can all do some things and can't do others. Do we call this a disability? Just what is disability? And is the law enough to protect the rights of disabled people? This assembly aims to encourage pupils:

to think about what disability is
to consider whether the law is enough to protect the rights of disabled people

Diwali

This whole school assembly marks the Hindu festival of Diwali on or around October 25. It is largely explanatory for an uninitiated audience, and tells some of the stories behind Diwali. The emphasis is on the Diwali message that light will conquer darkness, good will overcome evil, and that good people will prosper. The aims are:

to outline the principle reasons for celebrating Diwali in Hinduism & Sikhism
to describe the main practices involved
to foster empathy among non-Hindu/Sikh pupils
to reflect on the value of religious festivals in general

Diwali (October 25)

This YR-Y6 assembly explores the roots and meaning of the Hindu festival of Diwali, around October 25. The importance of the festival is illustrated by a story about a child whose non-Hindu friends rally round to help her to prepare for Diwali. The story can be acted out as a short play with six actors. This assembly encourages pupils:

to learn that we live in a diverse world
to share their beliefs and value the views of others
to explore the roots and meaning of the festival of Diwali
to learn about some of the customs associated with this celebration and appreciate their importance to both Hindus and Sikhs

Drug abuse

This assembly for KS3 and KS4 deals with the use and abuse of drugs. It looks at what young people think about drugs, and where they can find information. The emphasis is on information rather than experimentation as the way to find out about drugs. The assembly offers an opportunity for pupils to contribute ideas on how the school can help its pupils avoid drug abuse. The assembly aims:

to discuss briefly the harm that drug use can cause
to offer ways of finding out how to avoid drugs
to help anyone with drugs issues

Easter

This whole-school assembly draws out both the happy and sad aspects of the Easter story. It should:

explore the main parts of the Christian Easter story
allow the children to identify sad and happy times in their own lives

Eid Al-Adha

This Y9-Y13 assembly describes the origins of the Muslim festival of Eid Al-Adha. The celebration is about worship, sacrifice and sharing, and revolves around the story of Ibrahim and his readiness to sacrifice his son for God. The assembly aims to enable students:

to understand in outline the significance of the Hajj
to grasp that the animal sacrifices commemorate the near-sacrifice of Ishmael
to understand that making sacrifices in ones own life may be necessary

Eid Al-Adha

The theme of this YR-Y6 assembly is the Muslim festival of Eid Al-Adha. The celebration is about worship, sacrifice and sharing, and revolves around the story of Ibrahim and his readiness to sacrifice his son for God. Sacrifice is defined here as giving up something held dear to God. The assembly aims to help pupils:

to begin to understand that following Gods way may mean personal sacrifices
to appreciate that Eid Al-Adha is a time of celebration and sharing

European Day of Languages

This assembly for Y1-Y6 pupils children introduces the European Day of Languages, which celebrates linguistic diversity and promoting language learning. It can stand alone or introduce activities and guests to mark the European Day of Languages. The assembly aims to help pupils:

to look forward to learning another language at school
to become more aware of the existence and value of all the languages spoken in Europe and worldwide
to start appreciating the benefits of being able to speak another language

European Day of Languages (September 26)

The assembly marks the European Day of Languages on September 26. A mock TV interview about Europeans attitudes and language skills is based on results of a Europe-wide survey. The assembly discusses the importance of communication across language barriers and offers tips on improving foreign language skills. It aims to highlight:

the diversity of languages in Europe
the importance of being able to speak another language in addition to English

Exam preparation

This Y11 assembly sets out to give positive support to students facing examinations. It aims to:

summarise possible problems and pitfalls
give tips and advice for success and help

Exercise for Life

A week does not pass without a news item or a newspaper article being written about the current fitness levels of young people and the implications this is expected to have on them in later life.

This assembly aims to:

encourage children to exercise more
inform students how they might fit more exercise into their daily lives
highlight the long-term benefits of exercise, as part of a healthy lifestyle

Family

This Y7-Y13 assembly looks at families, how relationships change and conflict may arise. Poetry is used to introduce a stimulating discussion about different people's experiences of family life. The aim is to help students

to understand that there are various types of families
to know that conflict within families is natural to a certain extent
to appreciate their families while acknowledging that relationships within families are subject to all kinds of changes

Father's Day (June 20)

This year 1 — 6 assembly marks the celebration of Father's day, which takes place every year on the third Sunday in June.

The assembly aims to encourage pupils to:

Explore the origins of Father's Day
Celebrate and honour fathers and all men who have acted as father figures in their lives
Consider some of the ways that they can tell their fathers how important they are, and thank them for all they do

Fireworks and bonfire night

This whole-school assembly discusses fireworks and bonfire safety linked to November 5. It offers pupils the choice of a selection of safe and dangerous items, leading on to a discussion of the firework code and why these rules are important. The assembly aims for pupils to understand:

why we have bonfire night
that fireworks are dangerous if rules are not followed
the firework code
how pupils and their pets can stay safe on bonfire night

First assembly of a new school year

A YR-Y6 assembly to think about opportunities and challenges a new school year will bring, and to consider what the essential ingredients are for learning. Eight large boxes are built up to spell the word LEARNING. Each letter is linked to things pupils do, study or see at school. The assembly aims:

to encourage pupils to understand that they have an important part to play in making a successful and happy school
to consider the new opportunities and challenges of the new school year
to consider what the essential ingredients are for learning

First assembly of the new year, new beginnings and resolutions

This secondary assembly for Y7-Y13 on new beginnings and resolutions is suitable for the start of the school year in September. Just as successful athletes must think positively about forthcoming races, students are encouraged to aim for their own personal best at school and at home. The assembly aims:

to encourage students to review their individual success during the previous year
to encourage them to contribute actively to their own success
to help students to set realistic targets for the coming year

Food Safety Week (June 14)

To illustrate reasons why food safety is important
To recognise the importance of hygiene when handling food
To illustrate some of the issues related to processed and treated foods

Forgiveness

This assembly for YR to Y6 deals with forgiveness and how to deal with feelings of anger, sadness and hate. A role play of Matthews Monday Morning uses a bucket balance to show negative feelings being stored up, and positive actions that can restore the balance. The assembly aims to encourage pupils

to recognise negative feelings in ourselves and other people
to understand the importance of forgiveness
to see that other peoples actions can help us to forgive and forget those negative feelings

Gandhi

This assembly for Y1-Y6 pupils looks at Mahatma Gandhi and how he worked for the rights of people in South Africa and India without using force or violence, yet achieved great things. Gandhi's birthday was on October 2 but this assembly is appropriate at any time, particularly if the school is looking at global issues and human rights. The assembly aims:

to inform pupils of the actions of a great leader
to encourage pupils to follow Gandhi's example by being the change that they wish to see in the world

Grandparents' Day

The whole-school assembly marks Grandparents Day on September 7 (2003). The story of lonely old Mrs Eiderdown and the little girl next door who befriends her shows that older people have a lot to offer younger people. The assembly aims

to honour grandparents and elderly people
to remind pupils that grandparents can offer a special relationship to their childrens children
to help pupils become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer

Groups and communities

This YR-Y2 assembly is designed to explore different groups and communities; it tries to:

draw out what it means to belong to a group or community
get the children thinking about how people show they belong to a certain group
emphasise that each individual within a community can do something to help others

Guru Nanak

The theme of this YR-Y6 assembly is the origination of the Sikh religion by its first leader Guru Nanak. It also looks at the role of the teacher and the Sikh commitment to equality. The aim of the assembly is:

to inform pupils about the story and teaching behind an important festival celebrated by Sikhs
to foster a spirit of fairness and equality generally through the discussion of some key Sikh beliefs

Halloween (October 31)

Halloween is celebrated on October 31 every year, but just what is it a celebration of? How did this peculiar custom originate?

This whole school assembly examines the origins of Halloween and discusses some of the modern customs associated with its celebration. A simple story explores the effects of Halloween on the elderly and highlights some of the safety issues linked with trick-or-treating.

The assembly aims for pupils to understand:

how the celebration of Halloween evolved
how they can ensure that Halloween is celebrated safely
that elderly people can find trick-or-treating unsettling

Hanukkah

This assembly for Y1-Y6 celebrates the eight-day Jewish festival of Hanukkah, which begins on the 25th day of the Jewish calendar month of Kislev. Starting dates on the Roman calendar vary from year to year — normally falling in December, but sometimes beginning as early as November.

The story of the miracle of Hanukkah is followed by a short role play showing the key ceremonies, traditional food and game of dreidel played during the festival. The assembly aims:

to learn about the Jewish festival of Hanukkah and its importance to the Jewish community
to show the basic rituals involved in the Hanukkah festival
to describe the basis of playing dreidel

Harvest festival: oats, peas, beans and barley grow

This whole school assembly celebrates Harvest Festival (September-October) with the story of The Little Red Hen to illustrate how fruit, vegetables and crops go from being a seed to the dinner plate. Images of farm machines and processes stimulate discussion about the work of farmers. The assembly aims to enable children:

to know the different processes involved in making food
to explore the different processes involved in farming through photographs, farming and songs

Healthy eating, healthy living

This Y7-Y11 assembly examines the major food groups and draws out their influence on our diet. It aims to:

emphasise the principles of healthy eating and a balanced diet
give tips and examples of how to put these principles into practice

Holi (March 18)

This Y7-Y8 assembly for March 18 explains some of the traditions of Holi, the joyful Hindu festival of colours. It involves a small group of students in a presentation to depict the legend from Hindu mythology which Holi commemorates. The assembly encourages students:

to learn about Hindu traditions and beliefs, particularly the festival of Holi
to consider the importance of colour and brightness in life
to think about the meaning of spring

Holocaust Memorial Day

This KS2 assembly commemorating the Holocaust:

introduces the basic facts regarding the Holocaust
points out that religious and cultural intolerance can appear in all societies
highlights the individual responsibility we all have to combat injustice to others (or one day it might be us who are mistreated)

Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27)

An assembly for Y9-Y13 to mark Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27) which reflects on the tragedy of the Holocaust and prejudice in general. From an overview of the persecution of Jewish people through the ages the assembly moves on to consider the fate of Jewish children in the Holocaust. The assembly aims:

to reflect on the tragedy of the Holocaust and the need for remembrance
to reflect on prejudice more generally
to think about the Jewish people’s history of persecution, and achieve some empathy with that, and an understanding of the reasons for it
to reflect especially on the fate of Jewish children in the Holocaust

Human rights

This assembly for Y7-Y13 tackles human rights, in particular the rights of children. It asks pupils to consider how war affects children, and offers a case study of a 12 year-old boy injured by a landmine in Sri Lanka.

The assembly aims:

to introduce the key rights enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
to highlight the particular needs of children
to explain that armed conflicts have devastating effects on children

Human Rights Day (December 10)

This whole-school assembly marks Human Rights Day on December 10. It describes a strange party when nobody considers the guests needs, and develops the theme that everyone has rights as well as responsibilities or school rules to follow. The assembly aims to enable pupils to:

know that they have rights that should be upheld
understand that with rights come responsibilities
understand that expectations of behaviour exist in most social groupings
be aware that in some countries human rights abuses are much more serious

International Day for Tolerance

This assembly for the International Day for Tolerance (November 16) is for pupils in Y7-Y11. It looks at the need for tolerance in today's increasingly diverse society and reflects on the meaning of tolerance. By accepting their differences, different people can learn to live together. The assembly aims to highlight:

the nature of differences between people
the roots and consequences of prejudice and discrimination
the changing nature and increasing diversity in society
the positive effects, both personal and international, of respecting diversity and being tolerant of difference

International Women's Day (March 8)

This assembly marks International Women's Day (March 8) and looks at why it is still needed. Specific case histories encourage students to think about women's rights today, from Bosnia to Kenya. The assembly aims:

to highlight the continuing need to improve the rights of girls and women at home and abroad
to encourage students to empathise with girls and women whose rights are denied
to recognise that women's progress in business and public life is still impeded by men

International Women's Day (March 8)

This assembly for Y3-Y6 marks International Women's Day on March 8. It celebrates the achievements and personal sacrifices of Mary Seacole, Rosa Parks and Mother Teresa. The assembly aims to highlight:

the social significance and personal sacrifice of these women
the difference that an individual can make to improve the lives of others, even on a small scale
the importance of doing things that are kind and helpful

Internet Free Day (January 27)

This assembly for Y7-Y13 looks at Internet Free Day on January 27. The presenter chairs a mock debate between two protagonists on the advantages and disadvantages of the internet. The audience votes on whether they are in favour of an Internet Free Day. The assembly aims:

to look at the history and social impact of the internet
to consider why we should have an internet-free day

Jealousy

This assembly for Y1-Y6 looks at jealousy, how it feels, how it can make people act, and what they can do to overcome their negative feelings. Pupils participate in role play and a story, Jealous Jessica and Perfect Peter, illustrates the effects of jealousy and overcoming it. The assembly aims to enable pupils:

to understand that jealousy is a normal feeling that we all encounter at one time or another
to explore some of the ways that we can overcome these negative feelings

Justice

This assembly for Y7-Y13 discusses what is meant by justice and injustice. Students participate in a rehearsed Question Time type debate to consider the relative merits of imprisonment or community based alternatives. The assembly aims to encourage students:

to consider what is meant by justice and injustice
to consider arguments for and against prison sentences

Last assembly: moving on

This assembly aims to help students look back and evaluate their school year (or years) and achievements. It should help them to:

realise that all sorts of experiences, both pleasant and demanding, contribute to their own development and progression
challenge them to see their next year as one of opportunity and possibility

Last assembly: moving on

This YR-Y6 assembly encourages pupils to deal with change and moving on. It helps the children:

to reflect upon the past and ponder the future
to recognise change as part of life

Major News Event

This Y3-Y6 assembly examines objectivity in the media. Children are asked to decide for themselves which part of a story is based on fact and which on opinion. The pupils should learn to:

evaluate how the media present information to their target audience
understand that text on the same topic may contain different information
distinguish between fact and opinion

Martin Luther King Day

This Y7-Y13 assembly marks Martin Luther King Day, the third Monday in January. It combines an account of the life of this American civil rights activist and his non-violent struggle against racism with excerpts from his dramatic speeches. The assembly aims to encourage students:

to learn about Martin Luther King and the US civil rights movement
to consider the relevance of his message to our society today

Martin Luther King Day

An assembly for Y3-Y6 marks Martin Luther King Day on the third Monday in January. The presenter uses eggs to demonstrate that we are all the same inside, and goes on to show how Martin Luther King challenged injustice and prejudice with peaceful methods and sheer determination. The assembly aims to encourage pupils:

to recognise and show respect for similarities and differences
to think about identities and the things that contribute to our identity
to understand that all children have basic needs and rights as human beings
to develop strategies to deal with prejudice, including racism

May Day

This whole-school assembly aims to explore the origins of May Day, and look at some of the cultural traditions associated with it. It will also examine how May Day came to be appropriated as a day of civil unrest and protest against authority. The nature of protest will be considered.

Missing Child

This Y3-Y6 assembly provides children with a realistic range of solutions so that they are empowered with the knowledge and skills to remain safe at home and in their immediate neighbourhood. They should:

recognise that they can make choices
recognise and make some safer choices, based on right and wrong, good and bad
think about what is important to them in making choices

Mozart

This Y1-Y6 assembly is designed to teach a young audience about the life and times of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It is not intended to be a thorough and concise account of his work and music. The assembly is punctuated throughout with recommended excerpts from Mozart's vast repertoire of music. These pieces are only suggestions and teachers should feel free to make appropriate selections themselves.

Pupils should:

be made aware that Mozart was a highly exceptional musician who is still held great esteem today
be able to name at least one piece of music composed by Mozart

National Children's Book Week

The theme of this assembly is National Children's Book Week, celebrated each year in the first full week of October. It uses the slogan 'Tuck into a book!' to encourage children to explore and enjoy some of the many books published for children.

The assembly aims to:

raise awareness of National Children's Book Week, when it occurs, and what we might do to celebrate reading and children's literature
inspire children of all ages to read a range of fiction and non-fiction
promote reading as a positive and enjoyable activity

National issue with local impact

This Y7-Y11 assembly aims to help students understand which issues are local ones, which are national, and how national issues can impact on the local community. It should:

make them aware of their responsibilities
make them aware of their rights as citizens to have a say or be involved in such issues

National issue with local impact

This YR-Y6 assembly offers a framework for the discussion of a national issue with an impact on the local community. It reinforces the idea that there is more than one viewpoint in any debate and that all sides of the story need to be considered. The aim of the assembly is to:

address an issue of importance to the community
provide a balanced examination of the facts
give support to those who are affected

National Poetry Day (October 10)

This whole-school assembly highlights National Poetry Day on October 10. A brief quiz with lines from contemporary song lyrics and well known poetry leads to readings and discussion of the nation's favourite poems. The assembly aims to encourage pupils:

to discover and enjoy poetry

National Science Week (March 11)

National Science Week celebrates science and its importance to our lives. Einstein Year (2005) is part of World Year of Physics. In 1905, when the scientist Albert Einstein was 26, he discovered Special Relativity. Most people know that E = MC2. Everyone has seen his portrait. Each event during National Science Week raises awareness and understanding of science, engineering and technology. This assembly seeks to support teachers in explaining why we have National Science Week every year.

It aims to:

generate "awe and wonder" in highlighting exciting scientific discoveries
encourage students' curiosity in science
promote the idea that science, engineering and technology are central to our lives

Nelson Mandela

This assembly for Y3 -Y6 examines the system of apartheid and recognises the role played by Nelson Mandela in helping South Africans to gain the right to vote. It covers his imprisonment for opposing South Africa's white minority government and recognises the significance of his appointment as the first black president of South Africa.

The assembly aims to enable students to:

understand who Nelson Mandela is and what he did to help black South Africans gain the right to vote and participate in other activities
understand what apartheid was and why it was unfair
think about the importance of voting and why everyone should be entitled to vote regardless of their colour

New additions to the family

This YR-Y2 assembly examines the changes brought about by a new arrival in a family. It attempts to:

explore the physical and emotional needs of human beings
show that there are similarities between human and animal needs
understand that feelings of jealousy are common when there is a new addition to the family, be it human or animal

New Year: new beginnings

This YR-Y6 assembly looks at the meaning and making of resolutions. It underline that resolutions made now need determination if they are to last throughout the year. The theme of resolution is linked to the story of St Paul who resolved to serve God by travelling around to tell the world about Jesus, and encountered many difficulties on the way, but did not give up. The aim of the assembly is:

to introduce the idea of resolutions in a light-hearted way
to link it to more serious consideration of how we need to be determined if we want to achieve something difficult

No Smoking Day (March 10 2004)

This Y7-Y13 assembly marks National No Smoking Day on March 10. It uses the image of a hamburger's ingredients to depict the poisonous chemicals that are found in cigarettes, and highlights the effects or alternative uses of those chemicals. Students are encouraged to see when they choose whether to smoke or not, they are accepting or rejecting the regular intake of these chemicals into their bodies. The assembly aims to encourage students:

to consider the damage to the body caused by smoking
to look at some of the reasons why some people start smoking
to understand the issue of addiction to smoking

Peer pressure

Peer pressure is the theme of this Y7-Y13 assembly, which seeks to define the term and look at its positive and negative effects. Pupils are asked to consider what peer pressure can push you into doing, and to think how they can combat such pressure. The assembly aims to enable pupils:

to consider who influences their everyday decisions
to try to feel good about themselves without the need for peer approval
to understand that they have the right to make their own decisions, independent of other people's opinions or pressure

Personal safety

This Y3-Y6 assembly addresses issues of personal safety in the home, local neighbourhood and at school. It teaches pupils:

to recognise that they can make choices
the difference between right and wrong
to develop skills to keep themselves safe, and to know what to do in an emergency

Pocket money

Teaching children how to manage their money could make a difference throughout their lives. By giving children pocket money, parents encourage independence and a measure of choice as to how money is spent.

This primary assembly encourages children to:

examine how they spend the money they are given
explore the option of saving for a few weeks in order to buy something special
consider what they can give back in terms of helping at home or supporting a favourite charity

Racism

This assembly for KS3 and KS4 deals with the theme of racism by a short adaptation of the "blue eyes, brown eyes" experiment in 1968 following the assassination of Martin Luther King. The adaptation uses coloured cards, randomly distributed, rather than physical attributes. The assembly aims to challenge students :

to think about the effects of racism and prejudice in their own school community
to think about the effects of racism and prejudice in a broader context

Note to teachers: This assembly is a popular but powerful resource that uses the common differences in appearance between students to highlight the consequences of prejudice. The text should be read thoroughly by the teacher prior to delivering the assembly, and consideration given to its suitability for the age and emotional maturity of the students listening.

Ramadan

This whole school assembly describes the origins of Ramadan, the way in which it is practised and the spiritual motivation and benefits. It is designed for schools where Muslims are a minority. The assembly aims:

to foster awareness of Muslim beliefs and traditions among non-Muslim pupils
to highlight the spiritual purpose of Ramadan in developing self-control
to consider how Ramadan creates a sense of solidarity in the Muslim community and helps Muslims to feel compassion for the poor and hungry of the world

Red Cross Day

This Y7-Y13 assembly for International Red Cross Day on May 18 explores the past and present work of the Red Cross and give a brief history of the organisation. It aims to:

raise awareness of the work of the Red Cross during times of war and disaster
emphasise the intrinsic dignity of human beings and the need to transcend national/racial/political differences when people are often at their most vulnerable
outline the fundamental principles that underpin the organisation's work

Remembrance Day (November 11)

This whole-school assembly encourages pupils to learn about Remembrance Day and the symbolism associated with it. Children should:

learn that symbols such as the poppy represent a major commemorative event
be aware that commemorations (such as Remembrance Day) are linked to specific events in the past, which really happened
be aware that some historic events (such as Remembrance Day) are commemorated by pageantry or celebrations that usually take the same form every year

Remembrance Day (November 11)

This Y7-Y13 assembly is particularly relevant on Remembrance Day, November 11. It reflects on the tragedy of war in general, and focuses on the sacrifices of World War One in particular. Current events in Iraq also make it topical. The assembly aims to encourage students:

to reflect on war
to understand war is painful and harrowing rather than exciting and dramatic
to consider the consequences of war in terms of lives unfulfilled

Resolving conflict

The theme of this Y7-Y9 assembly is conflict resolution, with a focus on anger. It uses the analogy of a full unopened can of fizzy drink, shaken more each time anger mounts, to demonstrate that taking time to think is better than losing your temper. The assembly aims:

to show that no conflict, however large or small, is made better by unthinking action
to encourage students to think about conflict from a personal point of view
to allow students to consider how they could deal with situations without losing their temper

Respecting others - the elderly

This assembly for KS1 and KS2 looks at the respect and care due to elderly people. A short Nepalese story The Doko Basket can be enhanced by role play to show the importance of elderly people and why they should be cherished and respected. The assembly aims to help pupils to:

understand that each member of the family is equally important
appreciate that elderly people are vulnerable and need to be cherished and respected
realise that we will all grow old one day and will need a little extra help from those around us

Rosh Hashana

This Y3-Y6 assembly celebrates the Jewish festival of Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year. It asks the pupils to:

appreciate that we live in a diverse world and encourages them to share their beliefs and value the views of others
explore the roots and meaning of the Jewish festival of Rosh Hashana and learn about some of the customs associated with its celebration
think about the effect of their actions on others and consider atoning for mistakes

Saint George's Day (April 23)

This assembly is designed to teach children about the legend of St George. It aims to explain:

why many English people celebrate Saint George's Day every year
why this day continues to be important

Saying what you mean

This Y3-Y6 assembly concerns misunderstandings caused when people don't say exactly what they mean to say. It calls on pupils to:

reflect on and develop their thinking before they speak
understand that what they say may not be what they mean
realise that what others say may not be what they actually meant to communicate

Setting and achieving goals

This YR-Y6 assembly considers setting and achieving goals. A story with roleplay, Leo the Late Developer, conveys the idea of persevering to achieve your personal goals, and showing why it is worth the effort. The assembly aims to encourage pupils:

to think about setting and achieving goals
to think about persevering when you feel like giving up
to appreciate the achievements of others

Shakespeare

This Y7-Y9 assembly is best delivered on April 23, to mark the day that we assume Shakespeare was born in 1564. It celebrates Shakespeare's work through involving all students in a performance of the first eight lines of Act 1, scene 1 of Macbeth. From this look at a key part of British culture, the assembly could lead on to an exploration of other cultures. The assembly aims:

to create a sense of community and working together, as all students participate
to encourage students to think about Shakespeare as part of Britain's cultural heritage

Shakespeare's Birthday

This assembly for Y3-Y6 pupils celebrates the birth and works of William Shakespeare. April 23 is believed to be Shakespeare's birthday. The assembly uses interactive materials and a quiz to:

highlight the author's life and times
introduce pupils to his plays and sonnets

Shrove Tuesday

This Y7-Y13 assembly celebrates Shrove Tuesday. It aims to:

explain the history and purpose of Shrove Tuesday
put it in its context within the Christian calendar
explain the origin and symbolism of some of the associated customs
consider the purpose of Lent, and fasting generally

Sport Relief Day (July 10)

Sport Relief Day is held this year on July 10. This assembly aims to:

suggest ways in which students can get involved in charity sporting activities on Sport Relief Day
explain how the money raised for Sport Relief will be used to help reduce poverty in the UK and abroad
show how young people can participate in a positive way to improve the lives of people in their local and global communities

Teacher leaving unexpectedly

This Y3-Y6 assembly is designed as a framework to help children accept the loss of a teacher or other significant adult within the school environment. In this instance no two situations are the same, so the teacher leading the assembly will need to adapt the script according to individual circumstances. The children need to:

identify their own feelings about change and transition
develop strategies for managing change
identify who to go to for help and advice

The Nobel Prize

This assembly discusses the role that the Nobel prize plays in recognising the achievements of individuals around the world. It looks at why these individuals were successful and suggests ways in which students might seek to emulate them.

It aims to:

explain the significance of the Nobel prize and highlight the achievements of its winners
motivate students to think about significant achievements of others and how they influence society
recognise the achievements of the students themselves and suggest targets for the rest of the year

The significance of the media

This assembly highlights the power of the media in representing world events. It examines the wider role of the media in modern life and the responsibilities it has in representing what we perceive as the "truth".

It aims to:

help students to look more closely at media images as a means of understanding the world around them
enable students to think more deeply about the significance of the media in representing world events
encourage students to ask questions about the way the media may influence our everyday lives

The United Nations

This assembly discusses the role of the United Nations. It describes the background to the formation and development of the largest global international assembly in the world.

The assembly aims to:

explore the origins and role of the United Nations
celebrate United Nations Day which is held annually around the world on October 24
motivate students to apply the principles of the United Nations charter in their everyday lives

Travel

As summer approaches, people start thinking about the better weather, doing more outdoor things at the weekends and, of course, the summer holidays. Travel plays a major part in many peoples' summer activities.

This assembly aims to make students think about:

Why people travel
Why travel can be a wonderful experience
Independent travel
Living abroad (exchanges etc)

Tsunami

The Asian tsunami of December 26 2004 caused huge loss of life and devastation on a massive scale. This assembly seeks to support teachers in explaining to pupils the consequences of this particular disaster and how we might go about comprehending other large natural disasters.

It aims to:

share questions and feelings of sadness, worry and concern
encourage insight into the plight of the affected and how we are connected with them as part of a global community
encourage empathy for the affected people and suggest ways in which we might help in some way

Universal Children's Day (November 20)

This YR-Y6 assembly celebrates Universal Children's Day on November 20. Ten key needs of children are discussed using large cards with words jumbled on one side, correctly spelled on the other. The assembly aims to encourage pupils to:

think about differences between themselves and others
begin to develop an understanding of what a right is

Valentine's Day (February 14)

This Y7-Y9 assembly for February 14 explores the origins of Valentine’s Day. It combines a role play of the story of St Valentine, a Christian physician in ancient Rome, with readings of newspaper Valentines’ columns and Shakespeare's Sonnet 116. The assembly aims:

to explore the origins of Valentine’s Day and the story of Saint Valentine in a dramatic presentation
to give another ‘slant’ to a day that has become entirely commercialised

Walk to School Week (May 24-28)

This YR-Y6 assembly discusses National Walk to School Week (May 24-28) and considers the advantages of coming to school on foot or by bike, as opposed to driving. The assembly highlights that:

walking and cycling are usually healthier options than driving
when more people cycle and walk, congestion and pollution are reduced
walking to school can make you more friends
tips on how to reduce risk

Wesak

This Y7-Y13 assembly celebrates the life and teachings of Buddha. It aims to:

describe some of the main events celebrated at Wesak
encourage pupils to reflect on the nature of religious festivals, and the way in which they help a community to bond, and reinforce beliefs

World Aids Day (December 1)

This assembly marks World Aids Day, December 1. It is suitable for all sizes of groups from Y7 to Y13. Pupils will need some prior knowledge about HIV and Aids. The assembly explores the case of Nkosi Johnson, whose short life became a symbol of Aids awareness in South Africa and the rest of Africa. The assembly aims

to show that HIV/Aids is a global issue
to explore how it affects babies born in developing countries to HIV positive mothers
to illustrate how fear and ignorance about HIV/Aids lead to discrimination and exclusion
to demonstrate that great achievements start with small actions

World Book Day

This YR-Y6 assembly celebrates World Book Day on March 14. It looks at the process of writing a book from idea to publication, and asks pupils to find their own words for a well known story. Pupils have ten questions to guess the identity of three favourite book characters. The assembly aims to encourage pupils to:

think about the many different forms of literacy
celebrate literacy in all its different forms

World Day Against Child Labour (June 12 2004)

The aim of this secondary assembly is to make young people aware of World Day Against Child Labour (June 12 2004), which this year is dedicated to highlighting the plight of child domestic labourers — the 'invisible children'.

The assembly aims to:

Highlight the lives of the millions of school age children who are exploited in domestic labour situations
Consider the rights and freedoms of young people
Allow young people in the UK to contrast their lives with those of a similar age other countries
Provide a starting point for further work on the rights and responsibilities of young people world wide

World Day for Water (March 22)

This assembly for YR to Y6 marks World Day for Water on March 22. It faces children with a "choice" between drinking clean water or dirty water and highlights the fact that many children today do not have that choice. The assembly aims to enable pupils to understand that:

clean water is a very valuable resource and essential for a healthy life
we need a clean supply and a good way of disposing of dirty water
we should not take water for granted and that without water we would die
millions of people do not have a safe regular supply of water

World Day of Peace (September 21)

This whole-school assembly marks the World Day of Peace, September 21. After discussion of what war is and how war affects people living in the war zone, pupils are asked to think about things that people everywhere have in common. A peace rainbow is painted to symbolise these common needs and hopes. The assembly aims to encourage pupils to:

think about differences between themselves and others
begin to understand that war is wrong and that peace can begin in each of us

World Environment Day (June 5)

This assembly for YR-Y6 creates the analogy of the Earth as a spaceship and although we have everything we need we cannot all be greedy if we are to survive. It aims to create an awareness that:

all things are part of a cycle
nothing is created from thin air or disappears without trace
we need to conserve resources
we need to plan what to do with our rubbish

World Health Day (April 7)

The aim of this YR-Y6 assembly for World Health Day on April 7 is to raise awareness of the all-round benefits of exercise, giving information on its effect on the body. The importance of health in general is covered and how it impacts on an individuals quality of life. The assembly could be delivered at the beginning of a week's focus on health and safety. The assembly highlights:

the importance of good health and looking after ourselves in order to enjoy the world
the importance of health to be able to help other people
that exercise needs to be appropriate to your age and physical condition

World Mental Health Day (October 10)

This assembly for KS3 and KS4 marks World Mental Health Day on October 10. It looks at stress and pressures on young people and highlights positive steps everyone can take for good mental health and emotional wellbeing. The assembly aims:

to raise awareness of the importance of young peoples mental health and emotional wellbeing
to help remove the stigma associated with mental illness and to give students advice on how to maintain good mental health

World Mental Health Day (October 10)

This assembly marks World Mental Health Day on October 10. Through the short play The Bullies it shows the importance of talking about issues are making pupils worry, feel afraid or unhappy. The assembly aims to encourage pupils to:

think about other peoples feelings
discuss and share their own feelings

World Ocean Day (June 8)

This year 1 — 6 assembly celebrates World Ocean Day, which takes place on June 8 2004.

The assembly aims to:

Change the way we think about oceans by exploring what the sea means to us and what it can give
Consider some of the diverse and beautiful creatures and habitats found in the oceans
Suggest ways in which we can alter our daily lives to conserve the oceans and reduce the impact we have on these fragile ecosystems

World Population Day (July 11)

This Y7-Y13 assembly seeks to raise awareness of the issues involved in World Population Day, July 11. A population clock shows the world's population growing in real time, and a student role play explains how population doubles itself in half the time of the last expansion. The assembly aims to:

highlight the effects of ever faster population increase
consider why population growth should concern us
discuss factors such as improved education and living standards that can slow down future growth

World Refugee Day (June 20)

World Refugee Day is on June 20, and this Y7-Y13 assembly considers why people become refugees. It uses images and audio clips of refugee voices, and the story of a young refugee caught in a war in Africa to highlight the spirit and courage of the world's refugees. The assembly aims to enable students:

to know that while most people travel for fun, refugees travel from fear
to understand that most refugees seek only temporary protection until they can return home
to recognise the indomitable spirit and courage of the world's refugees

World Refugee Day (June 20)

This Y3-Y6 assembly explains the term "refugees" and encourages pupils to empathise with the feelings of refugees. It aims to:

explore real and imagined journeys encountered in life
recognise and show respect for similarities and differences between different groups of people
explain "identities" and the things that contribute to our identity, including our membership of different groups
teach pupils to take turns in speaking and to respond appropriately to others
show that all children have basic needs and rights as human beings, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, size, ability, etc
develop strategies to deal with prejudice, including racism, and show how to support others who encounter it

World Water Day (March 22)

This Y8-Y13 assembly marks World Water Day on March 22. With 19 litres of water, a tablespoon and a glass it demonstrates how little of the world's water is fresh and safe to drink. The assembly aims:

to encourage pupils to think about their own water consumption
to demonstrate that 1.5 billion people do not have access to a safe and adequate water supply
to show pupils that everyone can make a difference in conserving the world's water

Yom Kippur (October 6)

This KS3 assembly marks Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement (the holiest day of the Jewish year) which comes in October or September, ten days after Rosh Hashanah. The dates are different every year: in 2003, it is October 6. It is most suitable delivered to students who are not practising Jews. On Yom Kippur and in this assembly individuals are encouraged to:

reflect on their own lives
acknowledge past mistakes
commit themselves to fulfil their potential