About the curriculum

• Beyond Gender Stereotypes (BGS) is an innovative, evidence-based programme for children ages 7–11. The program supports children to understand and challenge limiting gender stereotypes. It was co-created as part of The Children’s Society’s Lifting Limits programme.

What does the curriculum consist of?

• A 2.5 hour self-guided online learning course to equip teachers and school staff with the skills and knowledge they need to implement the lessons effectively, and to strengthen their own professional development.
• 3 lessons (1 hour each) for Years 3/4 (ages 7–9)
• 4 lessons (1 hour each for Years 5/6 (ages 10–11)
• Accompanying resource handouts and powerpoint slide decks
• Teach Guidance resource
• Guide for Engaging Parents and Carers
• Responding to Challenging Questions from Children

How do we know it works?

In 2024, Beyond Gender Stereotypes was rigorously tested in 5 primary schools with 1,889 students across England, gathering detailed feedback through focus groups and surveys with pupils and teachers. The findings were overwhelmingly positive.

• 91% of children found the lessons interesting and felt they learned something new.
• After the lessons, children at the intervention schools (71%) reported that girls and boys played together more than control schools (62%), and that they felt comfortable to do so.
• After the online training, teachers held more gender equitable attitudes and 91% felt confident to teach the lessons.
• “One boy at the end of the lesson…said that he hadn’t realised how important the conversations were and he was glad that he had taken part.” — Teacher, Upper Key Stage 2