21 May
World Day for Cultural Diversity Workshops for Schools
One day, every culture in the room.
Marked every year on 21 May, World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is a UN observance recognising the value of the many cultures represented in classrooms across the UK. Rather than focusing on one tradition, this workshop celebrates the diversity already present in your own school community.
What pupils will learn
- What World Day for Cultural Diversity is and why the United Nations established it
- Why cultural diversity strengthens communities and classrooms
- How to talk respectfully and confidently about differences and similarities between cultures
- A chance to share and explore their own family backgrounds and traditions
What's included
21 May
- Whole-school assembly or classroom session exploring diversity and inclusion
- An activity inviting pupils to share something from their own background (optional, pupil-led)
- Discussion guidance for teachers to continue the conversation after the session
- Adaptable for schools with a wide range of cultural backgrounds represented
Key dates
21 May
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is a fixed date: 21 May every year.
What schools say
What schools say about our Cultural Diversity workshop
“We have children from nineteen different home languages and this session made every one of them feel seen. Parents commented on it at pick-up.”
Tom ElleryHeadteacher, primary school in Oxfordshire
Questions schools ask
Is this only for schools with high cultural diversity?
No — it's valuable for any school, including those with less diverse intakes, as an introduction to the wider world.
Will pupils be asked to share personal details about their background?
Only if they want to — any sharing activity is entirely optional and pupil-led.
Is this suitable as a whole-school assembly?
Yes, this format works particularly well as a whole-school session.
How does this differ from Black History Month?
This day looks at cultural diversity broadly across all backgrounds, rather than focusing on Black history specifically.
One day, every culture in the room.
Curriculum-linked cultural workshops and assemblies for UK primary and secondary schools.