Speaking calendar/National Sickie Day (UK)
2 February (Movable) · Workplace

National Sickie Day (UK)

In the UK, the first Monday of February is statistically the most popular day of the year for employees to pull a sickie (call in sick when they are actually fine). Whether it's the winter blues, a bad hangover, or just a lack of motivation, thousands of people stay in bed. This lesson explores the ethics of the day off—is it okay to lie to your boss if you just need a mental health day? We explore the great British skive.

SPEAKING LESSONB1 / B2Discussion · Vocabulary · Activities
01 / LET’S TALK

Speaking Discussion

  1. Have you ever pulled a sickie to do something fun instead of going to work?
  2. Why is February the month where we feel the least motivated to work?
  3. Should mental health be a valid reason to stay home, without having to lie?
  4. What is the most creative excuse you have ever heard for someone missing work?
  5. If you were a boss, how would you stop your staff from skipping work in February?
02 / PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Activity 1: The Sick Call

You are "Calling your Boss" to say you can't come in. You sound perfectly healthy. Convince them you are dying of a cold.

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate

Justify your answer in 30 seconds:

  • "Everyone deserves one free lie a year to miss work."
  • "Working from home has ended the national sickie day."
  • "February should be a holiday month."