Sec Values - Compassion & Empathy 1: Muhammed

Teacher notes

This is the 1st lesson in the compassion and empathy unit, part of the Secondary Year of Values series. Muhammed’s story offers moments of connection between a father and daughter in Finland. Through a shared meal, for example, we see how small acts of care, emotional honesty, and listening strengthen relationships. For secondary students, this is an opportunity to reflect not just on kindness within the home, but also on how empathy is shown through sustained attention, shared rituals, and support during difficult emotions. Encourage students to link this to other Lyfta stories from the last unit (e.g., Habiba, Sylvain) where everyday actions carry deep relational meaning. Guidance: This session can be delivered from the front of the class or on student devices (if available). The lesson invites students to reflect, share, and journal on the value of respect, not as a fixed definition, but as a living, evolving part of how they show up for others. No prior Lyfta experience is necessary. For new users, see the 20-min ‘Rob in Cornwall’ introduction lesson or 45-min ‘How to Use Lyfta’ overview (links below*). Like ALL Lyfta storyworlds, these characters are unique. We don't share stories as being 'typical' or as 'single stories' of people or places. Suggested introduction for each session in Year of Values: Each week, we explore a real human story from a different part of the world, helping us connect more deeply with the values that guide how we live and relate to others. In this unit, we’re focusing on compassion and empathy - not as abstract words, but as feelings and actions that shape our relationships and communities. Rather than defining them once and for all, we’ll explore how they show up in real people’s lives. Together, we’ll practise noticing what others are feeling, imagining how we might respond with care, and reflecting on what kind of difference small acts of understanding can make. Through conversation and curiosity, we’ll grow our capacity to listen, connect, and care. **National Curriculum Links** PSHE / RSHE (Statutory 2020, PSHE Association Programme of Study) KS3 H2: to understand what can affect wellbeing and resilience (e.g. life changes, relationships, achievements). H4: strategies to understand and build resilience, as well as how to respond to disappointments and setbacks. R32: how to show respect for the views, feelings and needs of others. R33: to recognise the impact of their actions on others, and strategies for considering the needs of others. R38: the role peers can play in supporting one another (including in relation to mental health and wellbeing). KS4 H3: strategies to manage influences on body image, relationships and wellbeing. R37: the skills and strategies to manage mature friendships, including showing empathy and compassion. R41: the need to promote inclusion and challenge discrimination, and how to do so safely, including online. R42: ways to participate actively in community life, showing care and support for others. Citizenship (KS3/KS4) - The roles played by voluntary groups in society and how citizens work together to improve communities. - The diverse national, regional, religious and ethnic identities in the UK and the need for mutual respect and understanding. English (KS3) - Listening to and building on the contributions of others. - Understanding and interpreting non-fiction and media texts, including those presenting personal experiences.