The Make a Difference Challenge is a child-led social action programme that empowers our youngest citizens to be community change-makers. The project challenges pupils to research and identify a social or environmental issue that they feel passionate about. Issues could be anything from homelessness to racism to climate change. Pupils then make a difference to their issue through awareness raising, fundraising or taking practical action. The Make a Difference Challenge provides an excellent context for meaningful SMSC learning, pupil voice and character development.
This project enables primary aged children to get a real understanding of the issues communities face, and take the lead in addressing the causes or effects of their chosen issues. Pupils may learn to empathise with those who are disadvantaged, recognise the role of government, voluntary groups and charitable organisations and consider the part they can play in bringing about positive change.
The Make a Difference Challenge has been running for more than a decade and has produced incredible stories of young people’s generosity and resilience. Last year, 62 schools and over 2,400 pupils from Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Durham, Leeds, London, Northern Ireland and Surrey took part and made a difference to causes they cared passionately about.
Get inspired by pupil-powered projects or explore the different delivery options below.
ONLINE PACKAGE: Your Make a Difference Challenge Annual Licence package includes online CPD certified training and a wealth of resources to guide, inspire and support quality social action in your primary school. Read more
IN-SCHOOL & ONLINE TRAINING: Our Make a Difference Challenge (premium package) includes a whole-day training session, an annual licence to run the programme in your school and access to our online training. Read more