First News has introduced a wealth of free educational resources for schools across the UK, aimed at enhancing literacy through engaging, news-based content. Developed by experts, these tools support teachers in addressing challenging topics and curriculum demands, providing valuable materials that both save time and help promote student progress.
First News offers a comprehensive resource hub filled with topical literacy materials. Educators can access a weekly teaching tool and an extensive archive of past resources. These materials help teachers navigate various subjects, including current events and social issues, in an educational setting.
Key free resources include an analysis of articles on animals, such as “Rise of the Apes”, for Pride Month, an FYI video titled “What does it mean to be LGBT?” which introduces children to important concepts, and the upcoming General Election on July 4, 2024, is also covered, exploring its significance for schools and pupils.
Environmental issues receive attention through questions about climate change and the actions of world leaders. Artificial Intelligence is another focus, with FYI presenter Braydon examining its impact on society. Deaf Awareness is addressed by Dhruvi, who discusses British Sign Language.
First News also provides free CPD webinars for teachers. These sessions cover a range of topics, including critical literacy, spotting fake news, and building resilience across the curriculum. This professional development supports teachers in integrating news-based learning into their classrooms.
The First News FYI News Club is an initiative for students interested in journalism and media literacy. The club offers access to FYI: For Your Information, a BAFTA award-winning news show, along with resources to help students identify fake news and understand current events. The club is free to set up and provides a practical way for students to engage with news media.
Additionally, the First News School Newspaper Guide offers a step-by-step approach to launching a school newspaper. This resource is divided into two parts: an introduction for teachers and a guide for students. Teachers can learn about curriculum benefits and reporting ethics, while students will receive training in reporting skills, interview techniques, and headline creation. Activities and explanations help students practice and refine their journalism skills.
Teachers can also benefit from CPD webinars offered by First News Education. Topics include the importance of detail, retrieval versus inference, and how to create a news community. These sessions aim to enhance teaching practices and promote a deeper understanding of news literacy.
First News encourages schools to join thousands of others in utilizing these free resources. By signing up, educators receive a new, topical resource every week during term time, access to a content calendar for planning, previous resources, professional development opportunities, and exclusive offers on First News products.
- To explore and sign up for these resources, visit the First News Education Free website.
- To buy a subscription to the First News Newspaper, see our magazines and newspapers for children page.
