The UNICEF Schools Project is a student-led outreach initiative that delivers interactive educational workshops to local primary schools, typically targeting pupils in Years 3–6. Its core aim is to raise awareness of children’s rights and global inequalities through age-appropriate, engaging sessions that connect classroom learning with real-world issues.
Volunteers meet weekly to plan sessions in term 1 and deliver schools sessions throughout term 2. Workshop content covers themes such as nutrition, disabilities, human rights, the refugee crisis, climate injustice, gender equality, mental health, water and sanitation, and the importance of education. All materials are based on UNICEF UK-approved resources, ensuring that sessions are accurate, sensitive, and aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The project also focuses on building long-term partnerships with schools by tailoring workshops to each school’s needs and supporting teachers in reinforcing key messages. Volunteers receive safeguarding training and guidance on presentation skills so they can deliver sessions confidently and responsibly. Overall, the UNICEF Schools Project acts as a bridge between university students and local communities, empowering children to understand their rights, recognise global challenges, and see themselves as active global citizens who can contribute to positive change.