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      Living as a Sikh in Britain today

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain how Sikhs contribute to the UK and how some face discrimination.

      Key learning points

      1. Many Sikh boys in the UK face challenges for having uncut hair.
      2. Many Sikhs value the laws around freedom of religion in the UK.
      3. Many Sikhs and gurdwaras are keen to work with other communities on interfaith activities.
      4. Sikhs have made a significant contribution to British society through acts of service.

      Keywords

      • Contribution - the act of giving or adding something

      • Turban - a traditional head covering worn by many Sikh men and women as part of their faith

      • Beliefs - strongly held ideas or opinions, especially those connected to religion or values

      • Discrimination - when someone is treated unfairly or badly because of their religion, race, gender or appearance

      Common misconception

      Sikhs don’t face discrimination in the UK.

      Even though the UK supports freedom of religion, many Sikhs still face difficulties and unfair discrimination because of how they look or their religious practices.

      Teacher tip

      Share real-life stories or videos of Sikhs who have made positive contributions to British society. Invite real-life Sikhs into your class to help pupils see the positive impact Sikhs have in the UK. Using visuals, create a Sikh contribution timeline.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the Kara?

      a Sikh prayer book
      a special Sikh meal
      Correct answer: a bracelet worn by Sikhs

      Q2.
      The Kara is usually made of so that everyone can afford one.

      Correct Answer: steel, Steel

      Q3.
      What does the circular shape of the Kara symbolise?

      the sun
      a wedding ring
      Correct answer: the eternal nature of God

      Q4.
      Who can wear a Kara?

      Correct answer: any Sikh, even if they are not a Khalsa Sikh
      only Khalsa Sikhs
      only Sikh children

      Q5.
      Helping others without expecting anything in return is called ' ' in Sikhi.

      Correct Answer: seva, Seva

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Some Sikhs face discrimination for wearing a .

      Correct Answer: turban, Turban

      Q2.
      Langar is a free served to everyone at the gurdwara.

      Correct Answer: meal, Meal

      Q3.
      Why is it important that Sikhs have freedom of religion in the UK?

      so they can avoid school
      so they can work from home
      Correct answer: so they can follow their beliefs openly

      Q4.
      Do all Sikhs avoid discrimination in the UK?

      Correct answer: no, many still face unfair treatment
      no, but only outside the UK
      yes, everyone is always treated fairly

      Q5.
      What does the Nishkam Centre aim to do?

      to teach only Sikh traditions
      Correct answer: to bring people together and to work on community projects
      to provide clothes for Sikh weddings

      To help you plan your 6 religious education lesson on: Living as a Sikh in Britain today, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...