At Functional Skills UK, we believe learning extends far beyond the classroom.
To help bring British Values to life and support learners' understanding of the local community, Managing Director Paul Smith has developed a unique Brighton British Values Walking Tour for ESOL learners.
Having lived in Brighton for more than 60 years, Paul has combined his local knowledge, passion for history and commitment to learner development to create an engaging experience that explores the stories, people and places that have shaped Brighton and Hove.
Bringing British Values to Life
The walking tour has been carefully designed to embed the five British Values:
- Democracy
- The Rule of Law
- Individual Liberty
- Mutual Respect
- Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
Rather than simply teaching these topics in a classroom, learners experience them through real stories from Brighton's past and present.
The tour explores locations across the city and uses local history to encourage discussion, reflection and understanding of life in modern Britain.
Supporting ESOL Learners Beyond Language
Launched during Summer 2026, every learner studying within Functional Skills UK's ESOL provision will have the opportunity to take part.
ESOL tutors join learners throughout the day, helping to reinforce English language skills through conversation and discussion while encouraging confidence and social interaction.
The walks provide opportunities for learners to:
- Practise spoken English in real-life situations
- Develop confidence and communication skills
- Learn about British culture and history
- Explore the local community
- Meet learners from different backgrounds
- Improve wellbeing through physical activity and time outdoors
Exploring Brighton Through History
The walking tour visits a range of locations across Brighton and Hove, using each stop to explore different aspects of British Values and community life.
Topics include:
- The women's suffrage movement and democracy
- Freedom of religion and tolerance
- Refugees and community belonging
- Equality and inclusion
- Ethical business and social responsibility
- Brighton's diverse communities and changing society
- The role of local government and policing
By connecting history with modern life, learners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and develop a deeper understanding of the society in which they now live.
Learning Through Experience
The tours are designed to be enjoyable, interactive and accessible.
Alongside developing English language skills, learners benefit from spending time together outside the classroom, building friendships and enjoying the wellbeing benefits of walking.
The programme also supports healthy lifestyles, with learners often commenting on the enjoyment of getting extra steps in while discovering new parts of the city.
A Message from Paul Smith, Managing Director
“Having lived in Brighton for over 60 years, I wanted to create something that would help our learners understand not only the city itself, but also the values and history that have shaped it.
British Values are best understood when learners experience them in real life. The walking tour creates opportunities for conversation, reflection and personal development while helping learners improve their English and feel part of the local community.
Most importantly, it's a fun day out and a chance for learners to enjoy Brighton together.”
Paul Smith, Managing Director
Supporting Personal Development at FSUK
At Functional Skills UK, we are committed to providing learners with experiences that build confidence, encourage inclusion and help individuals feel connected to their communities.
The Brighton British Values Walking Tour is another example of how learning can extend beyond qualifications and help transform lives through learning.