Do Gladiators Make Good Role Models? Encouraging Thoughtful Discussion in Primary Schools

Picture News primary school news story poster exploring role models Explore the latest Picture News resource here In many classrooms, conversations about people children admire come up naturally. These might be family members, friends, characters from books, or people they see on television. This week’s Picture News story uses the return of the TV programme Gladiators as a starting point for exploring the idea of role models with children. Many pupils will already be familiar with the show, making it a useful reference point for discussion in assemblies and classrooms. News assembly resource for primary schools This week’s news story has been designed to support primary school assemblies and classroom discussion. Using a familiar television programme helps children engage with the topic quickly, while the discussion moves beyond entertainment to focus on values and personal qualities. The story gives space for children to think about why athletes and public figures are admired, and what it really means to be a role model. PSHE and British Values discussion in primary schools Through guided discussion, pupils are supported to explore qualities such as determination, teamwork and resilience , alongside kindness, fairness and respect . These conversations link closely to PSHE learning and British Values, particularly around respect for others and understanding different viewpoints. The story also opens up space for children to consider whether someone can be a role model in some ways but not others, and whether role models need to be famous at all. Questions to support classroom discussion Teachers may choose to explore questions such as: What does being a role model mean? Why do people admire those who are on television or in the public eye? What kinds of strength do we see in everyday life? Can people show strength through their actions, not just physically? Who are role models in our own lives, and why? Primary school pupils taking part in a Picture News classroom discussion Using current events in primary school assemblies and lessons Linking current events and popular culture to assemblies and lessons can help children make sense of the world around them. Familiar references give pupils confidence to share ideas, listen to others and reflect thoughtfully. This story can be used flexibly across assemblies, PSHE lessons or wider classroom conversations. Picture News supports primary schools to explore current events through age-appropriate, values-led discussion. Each weekly resource is designed to help pupils develop confidence, curiosity and respect for different perspectives. Explore the latest Picture News resource here