An accredited research-informed classroom resource designed to help primary school children understand friendships has been refreshed with a range of new features to support teaching and learning.
Developed by Dr Rachel Maunder, Associate Professor in Psychology at the University of Northampton, and Professor Claire Monks (University of Greenwich), the free Our Class resources have been updated in response to feedback from educators and schools.
The programme is designed to help children aged 7-11 explore friendship challenges and build healthy relationships through engaging stories and classroom activities. The materials originated from Rachel and Claire’s research into peer relationships in middle childhood, and the importance of reciprocity and quality in close friendships.
The latest version of Our Class includes updated illustrations, shorter and more accessible stories, and new animated videos featuring child narration to bring key learning points to life.
The resources have also been mapped to the latest Department for Education Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) statutory guidance, helping schools confidently deliver curriculum requirements. They also have a seal of approval by the PSHE Association, who have re-awarded Our Class with their quality mark for best practice in safe and effective Personal, Social and Health Education.
Dr Maunder said: “As any educator knows, school involves more than teaching lessons. Our Class supports pupils in navigating common friendship experiences while encouraging discussion, reflection and positive relationship-building in the classroom.
“We know these resources are popular and well-received – version one had 5,300 downloads – so they remain free to access and are available for teachers, schools and education professionals seeking evidence-informed materials to support children’s social and emotional development. The team and I look forward to hearing positive stories about the use of Our Class and further feedback, so do get in touch via the Our Class site.
Dr Maunder and Professor Monks will hold a free webinar on Friday 20 November as part of National Antibullying Week – Friendship Friday. Reserve your place here.