Pri values - Aspiration & Gratitude 1: Deenpal 1/2

Teacher notes

In this session, pupils are introduced to a new unit of the Year of Values course: Aspiration & Gratitude. Through Deenpal’s story, they explore the idea that aspirations are deeply personal and can be inspired by culture, belief, support, and self-belief. The story gently opens up reflection on fear and courage, and what it takes to follow your dreams. **Learning objectives** By the end of the session, pupils will: Understand aspiration as a motivating goal linked to self-identity and belief. Consider how fear and uncertainty are part of pursuing dreams. Recognise the role of support and gratitude in striving towards personal goals. **Summary of Storyworld**: The Brave on the Pitch follows Deenpal, a Sikh boy living in Denmark who dreams of becoming the world’s greatest goalkeeper. His journey is grounded in his faith and family values - alongside personal courage to confront fear and failure. Through his reflections and training, Deenpal shows how aspiration and gratitude are connected in the way we dream, act, and grow. **Suggested introduction for each session in Year of Values**: Each week, we explore a powerful human story from a different part of the world, using real-life voices and experiences to help us better understand the values that shape our lives. In this session, we’re focusing on the values of Aspiration & Gratitude, but not by giving a fixed definition. Instead, we’ll reflect, question, and explore how people like us (and unlike us) live out this value in the real world. **National Curriculum Links** **PSHE/ RSHE ** H25, H27: recognising individuality, strengths and achievements. H28, H30: exploring aspirations and the importance of perseverance. H36: strategies for managing setbacks or disappointment. R13, R14: understanding how we show respect to others, including those with different beliefs or backgrounds. **RE** Learn about how religious beliefs influence people’s actions, choices, and sense of purpose. Understand how faith can help people make sense of challenges and shape their goals. **PE** Develop understanding of the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience through real-life sports stories. **Citizenship** Reflect on the lives of people in different communities and develop empathy for different perspectives. Recognise the value of diverse role models in society.