This week in primary schools, attention was drawn to the importance of positive role models, guided by a recent talk from former England football manager, Sir Gareth Southgate. Southgate expressed concerns over how much time young people spend online, gaming, or engaging with social media, and emphasized the need for positive influences beyond social media personalities. Sir Gareth Southgate’s Reflections on Role Models Southgate, during his BBC talk, highlighted the significance of having strong role models, particularly for young men. Drawing from his experience as England’s football manager, he explained that role models are not just individuals in the public eye but can be anyone who demonstrates good behaviour, resilience, and sound decision-making. He shared that the UK should work harder to offer better support and encouragement to young people, helping them feel confident in their choices and unafraid of making mistakes. What Is a Role Model? A role model is someone who inspires others to grow, make good choices, and strive to be their best. They guide through their actions, positive values, and examples. Role models can be people we know personally—like friends, family, or teachers—or public figures like Gareth Southgate. What matters most are the qualities they show: kindness, resilience, and the willingness to support and encourage others. Qualities of a Positive Role Model Southgate shared his thoughts on what makes a good role model. He values teamwork, resilience, and setting positive examples. When choosing the England squad, he looked for players who would inspire others and make positive choices both on and off the field. Key qualities of a positive role model include: Kindness and caring for others Making good choices Perseverance and resilience in difficult times Encouraging others and building confidence Setting a good example through consistent actions Classroom Discussions and Activities To help students reflect on the importance of role models, teachers can encourage questions such as: Who is your role model? What qualities make someone a good role model? Is it important for a role model to be someone you know? Through thought showers and class sharing, students can list and discuss the traits they value in role models and identify people they admire in their own lives. Classroom follow-up activities might include creating a heart-shaped wreath with names of role models, drawing portraits, or writing letters of thanks. These activities help students celebrate the impact of positive role models and think about how they, too, can inspire others. Reflecting on Role Models in Everyday Life A role model doesn’t have to be famous. Sometimes, the best role models are people we see every day. Students are encouraged to reflect on individuals who help, support, or encourage them. Even small acts of kindness or resilience can have a big impact and inspire others to emulate the same behaviour. Discussions also include thinking about whether a role model has to be an adult, or if even younger people can set powerful examples through their values and actions. Vocabulary to Discuss Role Models Diverse: A group with lots of differences. Emulate: To try to be like someone you admire. Resilience: The ability to recover from difficulties and keep going. Ridiculed: To be mocked or laughed at. Role model: Someone who sets a good example for others through their actions and behaviour. Social media influencer: A person who can affect others’ opinions or behaviours through social media platforms. Inspiring the Next Generation Gareth Southgate’s message reminds us that role models play a crucial part in the lives of young people. Whether it’s encouraging teamwork, showing resilience, or simply offering support in challenging times, positive role models help shape the choices and confidence of those who look up to them. Both schools and families can help children reflect on and celebrate these important influences in their lives. 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
