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Citizenship matters - but schools still face a practical question: where does it fit?

Geoff Barton is joined by Rob Poole, Director of PSHE and Citizenship at Sharples School in Bolton. Rob explains why citizenship has gained new urgency amid political change, the pandemic, artificial intelligence and the rapid growth of social media as a source of news. At the heart of his approach is active citizenship: students should understand society, recognise that their voices matter and believe they can make a difference.

The conversation explores how citizenship can be woven through PSHE, relationships, law, equality, finance and careers rather than confined to a single unit. Rob also shares how extended tutor time creates space for reading and current affairs, why teachers should not avoid difficult issues, and how well-sourced, politically balanced journalism can support safe and nuanced debate. He closes with practical examples of using news across subjects, tutor time, homework and classroom discussion.

In this episode

- Why citizenship is essential — and too often overlooked

- Moving students from passive consumption to active participation

- The effect of political and technological change on citizenship education

- Finding curriculum space for PSHE and citizenship

- Why critical thinking benefits every subject

- Helping students assess news beyond social media

- Handling sensitive and controversial issues with confidence

- Using current affairs across subjects and beyond the classroom

About the guest

Rob Poole is Director of PSHE and Citizenship at Sharples School in Bolton. He leads the school’s work across citizenship, health and wellbeing, relationships, careers and financial education, and champions informed discussion as a route to active participation.