This week’s primary school assembly and classroom discussion focuses on a new initiative in the UK aimed at inspiring young people to 'respect, protect and enjoy' the countryside. Let’s look at the key aspects of this campaign and how it aims to engage students with the outdoors and environmental responsibility. This Week’s News: Encouraging Respect and Enjoyment of the Countryside A recent UK government campaign, in collaboration with Natural England and Aardman Animations—the creators of Shaun the Sheep—has been launched to promote the Countryside Code. The campaign aims to help children and young people better understand how to look after nature and wildlife while making the most of outdoor spaces. According to new research from Natural England, 80% of children and young people believe looking after the environment is important, with 83% wishing to do more to care for nature. Shaun the Sheep, a popular cartoon character, has become the new face of the campaign, bringing the message to life for the next generation. Who is Behind the Countryside Code Campaign? Natural England, the government body responsible for educating citizens about nature and the countryside, has partnered with Aardman to raise awareness. Marian Spain, Chief Executive of Natural England, highlights Shaun the Sheep and friends as perfect role models for showing how everyone can respect, protect, and enjoy nature—whether in parks, at the seaside, or in the countryside. Understanding the Countryside Code The Countryside Code is a set of guidelines that applies to all outdoor spaces across England and Wales. Its goal is to ensure everyone can enjoy nature harmoniously with wildlife, the environment, and those who work or live in these areas. The code emphasizes mutual respect and responsibility, so everyone feels welcome in green spaces, regardless of age. Some ways people might learn about the Countryside Code and other important messages include advertisements, mobile apps, online videos, magazines, discussions with adults, real-life experiences, interactive games, and educational resources like leaflets or non-fiction books. Why Use Shaun the Sheep? Using a widely recognized and endearing character like Shaun the Sheep helps make the Countryside Code more memorable and engaging for children. Colourful images, catchy slogans, and interactive resources also play a valuable role in helping important messages stand out and stick in young minds. Discussion Points for Assembly and Classroom Consider discussing the following questions and activities with the class: Do students recognize Shaun the Sheep, and what do they think this campaign is about? What is the Countryside Code, and why might it be important? Have students ever visited the countryside or followed the code’s guidelines? Which Countryside Code guideline do they find most important? How might learning with Shaun the Sheep help them remember key messages? What ways can everyone show respect and responsibility in shared outdoor spaces? Activities to Promote the Countryside Code Teachers might encourage students to promote the Countryside Code in creative ways such as: Designing a poster, video, poem, song, or leaflet. Drawing or acting out the guidelines. Making up a game or a catchy slogan. Students could also use maps to plan a countryside visit, considering important details like travel, facilities, and planning a walking route to show practical application of the guidelines. Exploring Responsibility and Respect The Countryside Code is not just about following rules; it’s about creating a sense of responsibility and harmony. Everyone plays a role in ensuring natural spaces remain enjoyable and protected for all. For example, one guideline even encourages people to "be nice and say hello," a principle that can extend beyond the countryside to everyday life at school or home. Useful Vocabulary for the Week Campaign: An organised course of action to achieve a goal. Code: A system of principles, rules, or guidelines. Endearing: Likeable; inspiring fondness. Harmony: A peaceful situation where everything is balanced. Responsibility: Taking ownership, showing respect, and behaving correctly. Ensure: To make certain. Reflection Understanding and following the Countryside Code allows everyone to enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding the environment and respecting those who live and work there. Learning in creative, hands-on ways—such as with characters like Shaun the Sheep—can make the code accessible and relevant for young people. Further Resources and Discussion Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
