Prejudice and gender bias are part of everyday life for many children, often before they have the words to name them. Bigfoot’s Stand Up, Speak Out workshop uses creative drama techniques to help pupils in Years 4 to 6 recognise discriminatory and controlling behaviour, understand where unconscious bias comes from, and respond safely as an active bystander.
Through a guided visualisation, pupils picture a bus driver, a ballet dancer, a nurse and a footballer, and are often surprised by the assumptions they have made about gender before they even open their eyes. A Green Flag, Red Flag activity then gets pupils physically choosing a side as they weigh up real scenarios, from a friend who listens when you set a boundary to a friend who decides who you are allowed to be friends with. The session builds toward the Stop, Think, Act framework, giving pupils a simple, memorable way to respond when they witness sexism, controlling behaviour or other unfair treatment, whether that means speaking up in the moment or quietly telling a trusted adult afterwards.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Define key terms: prejudice, bias, sexism, controlling behaviour, discrimination
- Recognise gender bias and how unconscious assumptions can lead to sexism
- Identify healthy behaviour versus harmful or controlling behaviour
- Apply the Stop, Think, Act active bystander framework to real scenarios Know how and where to seek help and support
NATIONAL CURRICLUM LINKS
- PSHE (KS2): Mapped to the PSHE Association Programme of Study and the DfE’s 2025 statutory RSHE guidance, covering friendships, respecting self and others, safe relationships and wellbeing
- English (Speaking and Listening): Structured discussion, forming and expressing viewpoints respectfully
- Drama: Roleplay, freeze frames and scenario work to rehearse real world responses
- Citizenship: Equality, fairness and community responsibility
- Personal Development: Confidence, empathy and personal responsibility
FORMAT
Target Audience: KS2 (Years 4 to 6)
Session Time: 60 minutes per class
Capacity: One class per session (up to 35 pupils)
Also Available: 90 minute twilight teacher INSET
HOW TO ENQUIRE & BOOK
For us to quote your school and offer availability, please fill out the form below and tell us the year groups and how many classes you would like us to work with, along with any specific dates. We promise to respond to you within 24 hours. Important: if you haven’t heard from us, you may need to check your folder of doom (spam folder) where our emails may occasionally end up!
