Rebuilding social cohesion and democratic trust has become a key concern in British politics, amid increasing political polarisation, misinformation and declining trust in public institutions. Schools are often seen as part of the solution, helping children learn how to participate in civic life and live alongside others.

Yet children are rarely included in discussions about citizenship, political participation and rights. They are often treated as citizens in waiting, learning about “British values” – a government-defined framework taught in England’s schools that includes the rule of law, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs, in preparation for future participation in society.

At the same time, children are growing up surrounded by messages about what is right and wrong, often without the tools to question whose perspectives those messages reflect.

There are plans to make citizenship education mandatory in primary schools in England for the first time, including teaching about democracy, rights, media literacy and climate change. However, there is a risk that citizenship becomes primarily about teaching approved knowledge. For example, this could be learning about and showing respect for public institutions and services, rather than creating opportunities for discussion, participation and critical reflection.

My research suggests that young children are ready to think seriously about........

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