Meet the Kapow characters

 

A bespoke set of illustrated characters is embedded throughout Kapow’s RSE and PSHE scheme. More than a visual feature, these characters have been carefully designed as a teaching tool to support inclusive practice, meaningful discussion and emotionally safe learning.

Diverse group of pupils standing together outdoors in school uniform, including a wheelchair user.

The characters reflect the diversity of children in UK primary schools through a range of appearances, family structures, cultural backgrounds, experiences and additional needs. Developed in consultation with teachers, SEND specialists, RSE experts and diversity consultants, they help children see both themselves and others positively represented within the curriculum.

Children taking part in different activities in a school playground, including climbing, drawing and playing.

Each character is presented as a unique individual rather than as a representative of a particular group or community. This helps pupils to recognise and value the diversity of experiences and perspectives that exist within and across communities.

A key purpose of the characters is to support psychological distancing – creating a safe distance between pupils and sensitive topics. When discussing sensitive topics, some children may feel uncomfortable or under pressure to share personal experiences. By exploring situations through fictional characters, pupils can discuss ideas, consider different perspectives and solve problems without needing to talk directly about themselves. This supports open discussion while helping children feel safe and respected.

Four illustrations showing healthy online habits including self-care, sleep, positive interactions and balanced screen time.

The characters are used throughout the scheme, allowing pupils to watch them grow and experience new situations. This familiarity helps children engage more readily with the learning, reducing the cognitive effort required to interpret new people and contexts.

The characters appear across presentations, videos, stories, scenarios and discussion activities. They are used to model respectful communication, introduce new vocabulary, explore different viewpoints and present realistic situations for discussion.

Diverse group of children standing together indoors, including a wheelchair user and pupils with different interests.

Through authentic representation, consistency and psychological distancing, the Kapow characters help create inclusive learning environments where children can engage meaningfully with RSE and PSHE learning.

Four illustrations showing children connecting with family, spending time together, reading and following a daily routine.

Watch Meet our new inclusive characters video to find out more.

See Kapow’s new RSE & PSHE scheme here.

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