Bystander Intervention Training
Teaching children to intervene safely when they witness problems builds moral courage and community safety.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Champions of Character
- Learning area: Socio-Emotional
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Understand bystander role in conflict
- Learn safe intervention strategies
- Commit to active bystanding
Materials
- Bystander scenario videos/cards
- Intervention strategy menu
- Practise scenarios
Instructions
Discuss bystander effect: why people often don't help when they see problems. Teach safe intervention strategies: getting an adult, distracting the situation, supporting the target later, recording what happened. Practise intervening in scenarios. Commit to being 'upstanders' not bystanders.
Educator tip
Emphasize SAFE intervention—never put themselves at risk. Getting adult help is always an acceptable strategy.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe understanding of bystander dynamics, safe intervention planning, and commitment to action.