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.
More Lessons resources
Healthy Eating
In this lesson pupils will learn about the importance of eating the right amounts of different food groups as part of a healthy lifestyle. Pupils will have the opportunity to…
Children’s Rights
In this lesson pupils will learn that there are specific rights for children which are set out in the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child. Pupils will…
Keeping Safe At Home
In this lesson pupils will spot potential risks in the home. They will learn how they can help adults to keep them safe by reporting problems and keeping the home…
More Health and Wellbeing resources
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…
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. Pupils will experiment with hand washing techniques before being…
More KS1 (ages 5-7) resources
We Treat Everyone Fairly (poster)
We take action to help make the world a fairer and more equal place. To access this content, register for our School Subscription.
How Do You Feel Today?
Discussion about how to spot the signs that someone is physically unwell, and who to tell, and how to spot the signs that someone is emotionally unwell. Can the same…
The Big Legal Lesson 2026 (ages 5-11)
Join the UK's biggest legal education campaign during February 2025.