History

Intent

The History curriculum is designed to inspire children to become curious, reflective and analytical thinkers who develop a secure understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. Through the study of significant people, events and societies across local, national and global contexts, children build chronological knowledge and explore how and why change occurs over time. The curriculum aims to develop critical thinking by encouraging pupils to question evidence, interpret sources and understand how historical accounts are constructed. By engaging with diverse histories and recurring concepts such as civilisation, migration, power and society, children gain empathy and insight into human experiences across time, preparing them to understand the present through knowledge of the past.

Implementation

History is implemented through a carefully sequenced, enquiry-based curriculum from EYFS to Year 6 that ensures full National Curriculum coverage and clear progression of knowledge and skills. Learning is structured around key strands including topic knowledge, chronological awareness, substantive concepts, disciplinary concepts and historical enquiry, which are revisited and developed in increasing depth across year groups. Units are framed by historical questions that guide investigation, interpretation and evaluation of evidence, enabling children to think and work as historians. The curriculum is supported by knowledge organisers, vocabulary, timelines and high-quality resources that help pupils place learning within a coherent chronological framework and connect new knowledge with prior learning.

Impact

The impact of the History curriculum is evident in children’s growing ability to think historically and communicate informed interpretations of the past. Pupils develop secure chronological understanding, knowledge of key periods and concepts, and confidence in analysing sources and constructing historical arguments using ideas such as cause, consequence, similarity and change. Outcomes demonstrate progression from personal and local history towards broader national and global understanding, with pupils able to make connections across periods and contexts. By the end of primary school, children meet National Curriculum expectations and are equipped with the knowledge, vocabulary and enquiry skills needed to continue studying history as thoughtful, informed learners.