Sikh Service

The Sikh Service in the British Army

Produced in consultation with the Defense Sikh Network and historian Gurinder Singh Mann, the Sikh Service in the British Army resources help students aged 11–16 to explore the varied contributions of Sikh soldiers throughout the history of the British Army.

The assembly presentation provides an overview of the Battle of Saragarhi alongside a wider introduction to the involvement of Sikh soldiers in the British Army throughout history. Including reflections from current serving Sikh personnel, the resource reflects on why it is important to celebrate and remember the contribution of Sikh soldiers, on Saragarhi Day, during Remembrance and throughout the year. 

The lesson can be used independently, or to build on the assembly knowledge. It offers interactive tasks to help young people identify key features of Sikhism, explore the timeline of the involvement of Sikh soldiers in the British Army and build source analysis skills investigating the experiences and impact of Sikh soldiers in World War One. As in the assembly, students are also given the opportunity to reflect on comments from current serving personnel, considering the power of the stories we share in history and today.   

The Sikh Service in the British Army resources could be used as part of your school’s activities for Remembrance, Saragarhi Day (12 September) or as part of general curriculum learning – with links to key aspects of PSHE/Health and Wellbeing and related curricula, alongside History and Citizenship.