National identity, citizenship and cosmopolitanism: unpacking the terms in British schooling. A work-in-progress

Issues of citizenship and national identity are present in all societies, even those that have regarded themselves as well established and secure, profound and urgent questions are now being asked in response to both internal and external factors. It is possible to explore one specific example as an illustration and vehicle for this discussion. In multi-ethnic Britain, citizenship and national identity have become important issues. Things once taken for granted have become a matter of public concern and debate. Specifically, 'What is Britishness'? is a question that has concerned government departments and agencies, educationalists - and the current British Prime Minister for some time. This general and abstract discussion has relevance for the role and work of teachers, especially for those where citizenship education and global thinking are declared governmental policy. So, all teachers, certainly British ones, whether involved in teaching citizenship or not, must consider the evolving national identity in the context of globalization and their concomitant values about diversity and cosmopolitanism that they embody as being part of their professional identity.