You don’t need telling the world is changing, and so must our approach to education. In UK primary schools, the curriculum has long fluctuated between different teaching approaches: thematic, single-subject, knowledge-rich, and skills-based. But with pupils facing a rapidly evolving world, where critical thinking skills are fundamental, schools are now asking a vital question:
Why choose just one approach?
In a society where transferable skills and knowledge are essential, we need a curriculum that empowers pupils to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate diverse perspectives.
Let’s explore one of the most powerful tools to prepare pupils for this challenge: fostering perspectives and interpretations in the classroom.
Why Perspectives and Interpretations Matter More Than Ever
Today’s pupils face unique challenges: “fake news,” social media bubbles, algorithm led searches, peer pressure, and a world full of contrasting opinions. In this diverse and interconnected environment, understanding and respecting different perspectives isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a critical skill.
When young learners realise that every story has more than one side, they develop empathy, open-mindedness, and effective communication skills. For example, we all have favourite foods – some love pizza, others prefer sushi, and some can’t resist a good curry. Does everyone have to like the same food? Of course not! This simple analogy helps children grasp that people’s preferences, ideas, and experiences can be different – and that’s okay, that’s the beauty of a diverse society.
Additionally, when pupils understand that being aware of different perspectives helps them to be more informed decision makers, they become more confident and resilient learners.
In primary education, teaching perspectives helps children develop:
- Critical Thinking: Encourages pupils to question assumptions and look for evidence.
- Empathy: Builds compassion and social skills by recognizing others’ feelings.
- Conflict Resolution: Equips students with tools to navigate and resolve disagreements.
- Global Awareness: Prepares children to appreciate and engage with a broader world.
How UK Primary Schools are Bringing Perspectives into the Classroom
The ‘Learning Means the World‘ curriculum is one progressive example of integrating perspectives. This innovative approach emphasises global and thematic learning, moving beyond traditional subjects to help students connect with real-world issues. Here’s how perspectives and interpretations are brought to life in schools to enhance critical thinking skills:
1) Storytelling and Literature Discussions
Stories are a gateway to diverse experiences. By learning about characters from different backgrounds or cultures, pupils see the world through others’ eyes. Group discussions, role play and “think-pair-share” activities then encourage pupils to talk about what characters might feel or think, building empathy and understanding. For example, developing a deeper understanding of prejudice and its negative impact through the lives of Martin Luther King, Walter Tull and Nelson Mandela to name a few.
2) Role-Playing and Simulation Games
Role-playing lets pupils “walk in someone else’s shoes.” When learning about the Victorian society, pupils might take on different roles when learning about the life and work of Thomas Barnardo. This immersive experience of the extremes of rich versus poor helps them understand complex social issues from multiple angles and makes learning more engaging.
3) Debate and Discussion
Even young pupils can explore different viewpoints through structured debates and discussions. Winston Churchill is one of the most famous people in British history. However, he has recently been highlighted for criticism. Why is this? What are the facts? What is the context for his decision making? What have we learnt from his life? Is everyone perfect?
4) Art and Creative Expression
Art and design projects, rather than follow prescriptive, same outcome worksheets/activities, allow pupils to express their interpretations of needs, themes or stories visually. When they share their artwork with classmates, they often reveal unique perspectives, sparking conversations about why their creations differ and what influenced their choices.
5) Global Awareness Projects
Thematic units on global issues, like conflict, climate change or migration, introduce children to perspectives from different parts of the world. Learning about how children elsewhere experience these issues fosters a sense of global citizenship and shared responsibility.
Teachers can reinforce these lessons and develop critical thinking skills in schools by asking open-ended questions, modelling empathy, and exposing children to media from diverse cultures. For example, instead of asking, “Did you like the story about The Titanic?” try asking, “Why do you think the character acted that way?” This encourages deeper thinking and empathy.
By integrating these approaches, a successful primary curriculum is not just teaching knowledge but are empowering pupils with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected and diverse world. This holistic approach to education promises a brighter, more inclusive future for all pupils.
