History

Our History curriculum is carefully designed to ensure that all children develop secure historical knowledge, chronological understanding, and the ability to interpret and question the past. Learning is sequenced thoughtfully so that pupils build on their understanding year after year, developing both their curiosity and their confidence as young historians.

Children begin their historical journey in the Early Years Foundation Stage, where they explore the recent past through stories, settings, characters and events encountered in class books. This early exposure helps them develop a sense of time and an understanding of the world around them. In Key Stage 1, pupils deepen this knowledge by sequencing events from their own lives, identifying similarities and differences between ways of life at different times, and beginning to use simple sources such as artefacts, pictures and stories. They study changes within living memory, including what life was like when their grandparents were young, before moving on to events beyond living memory such as the Great Fire of London. Children also learn about significant individuals who have shaped history, including Florence Nightingale, the Wright brothers, and local figure Emmeline Pankhurst, whose leadership in the women’s suffrage movement continues to inspire.

In Key Stage 2, pupils develop a chronologically secure understanding of British, local and world history. In Lower Key Stage 2, they explore ancient civilisations and early British history, including the Stone Age to Iron Age, the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings. They learn to place events on timelines, distinguish between primary and secondary sources, and use evidence to build a picture of life in the past. Upper Key Stage 2 broadens this knowledge further, with studies of the ancient Egyptians, the ancient Maya and the Victorians. Pupils compare changes across different periods, evaluate a range of historical sources, and use evidence to form their own interpretations of past events.

When a history unit is not the focus for a particular half-term, pupils continue to encounter the past through stand‑alone lessons that highlight significant individuals and their contributions. For example, during Year 5’s science-based space topic, children learn about Katherine Johnson and her vital role in America’s success in the Space Race. These additional lessons ensure that pupils regularly encounter diverse stories and voices from history, enriching their understanding of the world and its heritage.