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
Understanding Cancer
Many children in classrooms all around the country are dealing with cancer in one way or another at any given time. This lesson seeks to answer some of their questions…
How Do You Feel Today?
In this lesson pupils will read about Mitali and his concerns for his friend Anna, who appears to be withdrawn and unhappy. Pupils will consider what can make people feel…
More Health and Wellbeing resources
Controversial issues: guidance for schools
Children are alert to information and images they see in the media. These may graphically influence their view of the world, and not always positively. Graphic images on TV and…
What is an Infectious Disease?
In this lesson pupils consider how infections can spread rapidly through a population and are introduced to the different infectious agents that cause disease (bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasitic organisms).…
Caring for Pets (Assembly)
Through the story of ‘Tigger the football loving rabbit’ this assembly addresses children’s responsibilities towards pets and the happiness they can derive from relationships with animals. To access this content,…
More KS1 (ages 5-7) resources
The Big Legal Lesson (ages 5-11)
Join the UK’s biggest legal education campaign during February 2026. To access this content, register for our Primary School Subscription.
We Bounce Back (poster)
When faced with challenges we keep on trying and learn from our mistakes. To access this content, register for our Primary School Subscription.
Chicken Soup
In this lesson pupils will read a tale adapted from Jewish folklore that explores the theme of sharing. Pupils will reflect on the behaviour of the characters and consider how…