51ºÚÁÏ

Autopilot v Awareness – Teacher Resource Pack (KS1 & KS2)

This resource helps children understand the difference between being on autopilot (doing things automatically) and being aware (pausing and paying attention). It introduces two key parts of the brain — the basal ganglia (habit brain) and the prefrontal cortex (thinking brain) — to explain how our brains switch between autopilot and awareness. Pupils will learn how autopilot can be useful, but also when awareness is needed to help them focus, notice, and make better choices.

What’s included:

Visual analogy page – Autopilot Robot vs Awareness Robot, with simple brain science explanation.
Introduction & teacher notes – guidance on how to use the pack.
Examples to suggest to pupils – practical awareness strategies.
Circle time sentence starters (6) and talking token questions (6) for discussion.
Two worksheet activities:
Autopilot Robot – labelling autopilot actions.
Awareness Robot – labelling awareness actions.
Movement break – Awareness Stretch to notice body movement and posture.
Breathing technique – Counting Breath to focus on the present moment.
Poster prompts – 20 awareness questions for classroom display.
Curriculum links – mapped to RSHE/PSHE statutory objectives for KS1 & KS2, with official H codes.
5 Ways to Wellbeing – Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, Give.
Perfect for PSHE, circle time, wellbeing lessons, nurture groups, or as a whole-class resource.