Explore the life and political career of Boris Johnson with this informative, ready-to-use handout. Students learn about Johnson’s early life, education at Oxford University, career as a journalist, entry into Parliament, his time as Mayor of London, and his rise to become Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The handout also introduces students to Johnson’s role in the 2016 EU referendum, including his support for the Leave campaign, and encourages students to consider why he remains a controversial and influential political figure.

Ideal for:

KS3 and KS4 History
Citizenship and Politics
Modern British History
British Prime Ministers
Brexit and the European Union
Political leadership
Biography and comprehension activities
Homework and independent study
Revision and cover lessons

Topics covered include:

Boris Johnson’s birth and early life
His education at Oxford University
His career in journalism
Becoming an MP in 2001
Becoming Mayor of London in 2008
The 2016 EU referendum
His leadership of the Conservative Party
Becoming Prime Minister in 2019
Controversies surrounding his political career

The handout provides an accessible introduction to a recent and significant figure in British political history, while giving students opportunities to develop their knowledge, comprehension and ability to discuss different perspectives.

A useful, low-preparation resource for lessons exploring Boris Johnson, modern British politics and the events surrounding Brexit.