Sec Values - Courage & Resilience 5: Tamara

Teacher notes

Tamara from Amsterdam experienced a stroke that left her unable to speak. Her story invites students into a conversation about how we respond to life-altering experiences, particularly around communication, identity, and emotional strength. This lesson continues our Courage & Resilience sequence by focusing on healing as a form of courage, and the role of support systems, creative therapy, and persistence in regaining one's sense of self. **Themes:** Courage in the face of unexpected challenges Resilience and perseverance in recovery Communication and self-expression Disability awareness and inclusive cities **Values Focus:** This story deepens students’ understanding of courage as something that grows in tough times, and resilience as a strength we use to keep going and find new ways forward. 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 respect and inclusion, 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. This is about growing our awareness of ourselves and others and being aware of the relationship between the two. Together, we’ll develop our own understanding through thoughtful reflection and respectful dialogue. **Curriculum links:** This lesson is especially strong for supporting the following curriculum areas: PSHE (emotional wellbeing, resilience, identity) Citizenship: inclusion, diversity, critical reflection English: expressive speaking and reflective writing More detailed National Curriculum links: PSHE KS3: H1 – to accurately assess physical, emotional and social wellbeing, and make informed choices that promote wellbeing. H3 – how to manage growth and change, including physical and emotional changes. H4 – strategies for managing influences on health and wellbeing, including resilience and coping with setbacks. R33 – the impact of relationships on physical and emotional health. L4 – the skills and qualities required to manage change and develop resilience. PSHE KS4: H3 – how to maintain physical, emotional and mental health and wellbeing. H5 – how to make informed choices about health, including seeking support and healthy coping mechanisms. L3 – developing resilience in response to challenges, change and setbacks. Citizenship KS3: 1a – the roles and responsibilities of citizens in society, and how individuals can contribute to communities. 2a – to think critically about topical issues that affect individuals and communities. Citizenship KS4: 1c – to explore diverse identities in the UK and the need for mutual respect and understanding. 2b – to take part in discussion and debate about topical issues, problems and events. English KS3: Spoken Language – SL1, SL2 – listen and respond appropriately to others, use spoken language to develop understanding through discussion. English KS4: Spoken Language – SL3 – use discussion to explore ideas and build on others’ views.