Resource

Why Do We Wash Our Hands?

In this lesson pupils will learn that washing their hands can help to prevent the spread of germs which cause illnesses.

Overview

In this lesson pupils will learn that washing their hands can help to prevent the spread of germs which cause illnesses. Pupils will experiment with hand washing techniques before being given advice on how to effectively clean their hands and when hand washing is essential. Through creating rhymes and posters, pupils will consolidate and share their learning with their schoolmates.

Please note: A section referencing the coronavirus has been added to the end of this lesson. This section
contains additional advice on hygiene precautions related to preventing the spread of this disease.
The advice follows NHS guidelines as of 18.03.2020. For the most recent guidelines please consult
Government and NHS sources. As this topic may raise sensitive issues for your pupils, please seek the guidance of your Safeguarding Lead to ensure that the content is suitable for your pupils and reflects the school’s health and safety policy.

To access this content, register for our School Subscription.

More Lessons resources

Lessons, Social Action/Active Citizenship, KS1 (ages 5-7)

The Power of Giving

In this lesson pupils will read a tale from Japanese folklore which tells of how one small act of generosity leads to big gains. They will think about whether generous…

Lessons, Diversity and Inclusion, KS1 (ages 5-7)

More than One Friend

In this lesson about friendship, pupils will follow the story of Digby who is upset when his best friend Anna starts spending a lot of time with someone else. Pupils…

Lessons, Sustainability and the Environment, KS2 (ages 7-11)

Protecting Local Habitats (KS2)

In this lesson pupils will learn about the importance of habitats and explore endangered British species and the threats to their habitat. Pupils will be guided through ways in which…

More Health and Wellbeing resources

Lessons, Understanding Rules & The Law, KS1 (ages 5-7)

Rules: You Can’t Do That Here

In this lesson pupils will consider that some rules are made to keep people safe. They will follow the story of Callum, a Go-Giver who wants to find a place…

Certificates, Health and Wellbeing, KS1 (ages 5-7)

Bouncing Back (certificate)

Our pupil certificates are linked to 12 ethos statements, such as We Bounce Back. Each statement supports character development and the acquisition of key citizenship skills The values, skills and knowledge…

Lessons, Understanding Rules & The Law, KS3 (ages 11-14)

Cyberbullying (SmartLaw Subscription)

According to research by the charity Ditch the Label, 7 in 10 young people have experienced cyberbullying, 20% of whom experience it daily. Support your students to know their legal…

More KS1 (ages 5-7) resources

Lessons, Understanding Rules & The Law, KS1 (ages 5-7)

The Big Legal Lesson 2026 (ages 5-11)

Join the UK's biggest legal education campaign during February 2025.

Class Posters, Community, KS1 (ages 5-7)

We Stand up for Others (poster)

We are always willing to help others and to speak up for people who struggle to make their voices heard. To access this content, register for our School Subscription.

Lessons, Sustainability and the Environment, KS1 (ages 5-7)

World Female Ranger Day (KS1)

During this lesson pupils will learn about World Female Ranger Day. Pupils will explore where the continent of Africa is and learn about its unique wildlife, and why it needs…