Menu
Language
Search

History

History Curriculum: Intent

 

At Blakenall Heath Junior School, the intent for teaching History is to inspire a sense of curiosity and fascination about the past, enabling our pupils to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain's past and the wider world. Our aim is to develop their historical skills, encouraging them to ask perceptive questions, think critically, challenge assumptions, and present well-reasoned arguments.

 

We believe that an outstanding History curriculum should instil in our pupils a love for the subject, promoting active engagement, and fostering an appreciation for the diversity of cultures, ideas, and societies throughout history. We strive to create a stimulating learning environment, where historical concepts are brought to life through a range of resources, activities, and first-hand experiences.

 

History Curriculum: Implementation

 

To achieve our intent, we have developed a History curriculum that is broad, balanced and progressive. Our curriculum content caters to the needs and interests of all of our children. The implementation of our History content involves the following key strategies:

 

1. Sequencing and Organisation

Our History curriculum is carefully sequenced, ensuring a progressive development of knowledge and understanding across year groups. We have mapped out a coherent and ambitious curriculum that covers key historical periods and themes, including local, national, and international history. This allows our pupils to make connections between different time periods and civilizations and develop an understanding of chronology, creating a broad and balanced understanding of the subject.

2. Cultural Context and Diversity

We recognise the importance of providing a diverse and inclusive History curriculum that reflects the experiences and contributions of individuals from all walks of life. Our lessons incorporate narratives from historically marginalized groups and aim to challenge stereotypes. We actively seek out and utilize a range of resources, such as primary and secondary sources, artefacts, multimedia, and guest speakers, to bring diverse perspectives into the classroom.

 

3. Developing Historical Skills

We explicitly teach historical skills, such as analysing evidence, interpreting sources, and constructing chronological narratives. Our pupils engage in regular opportunities to evaluate and weigh up conflicting interpretations, encouraging them to think critically and form their own opinions based on evidence. Through activities such as historical investigations, role-play, and debates, we aim to enhance their ability to use historical skills in a purposeful and meaningful way.

History Progression Statements

Significant Historians

4. First-Hand Experiences

We believe that first-hand experiences are invaluable in developing a deep understanding of History. We organise visits to local historical sites, museums, and heritage centres to enrich our pupils' learning journeys. We also invite local historians and experts to share their knowledge, enabling our pupils to interact with individuals who have a passion for History and can provide unique insights.

History Curriculum: Impact

 

The impact of our History curriculum is evident through the good progress made by our pupils across the following areas:

 

1. Love for History

Our ambitious History curriculum nurtures an infectious enthusiasm for the subject among our pupils. They are excited to come to History lessons, and their positive attitudes translate into high levels of engagement and participation. Pupils develop a long-lasting passion for History that extends beyond their time in primary school, fostering an ongoing interest in understanding the world around them.

 

2. Deep Knowledge and Understanding

Through our carefully planned curriculum, our pupils acquire a vast knowledge of key historical events, figures, and concepts. They can confidently place historical events within their social, cultural, and political contexts, demonstrating a deep understanding of the human experience throughout time. Pupils can articulate connections between past and present, evaluating how historical events have shaped the world today.

 

3. Historical Skills:

Our pupils become skilled historians, proficient in analysing primary and secondary sources, critically evaluating interpretations, and constructing well-reasoned arguments. They communicate their historical understanding effectively, both orally and in writing, using appropriate historical vocabulary and concepts. These skills prepare our pupils for further studies in History and enable them to succeed in their future education and careers.

 

 

4. Increased Cultural Awareness:

By incorporating diverse narratives into our History curriculum, our pupils develop a greater appreciation for different cultures, perspectives, and contributions to history. They develop empathy and respect for others and recognise the importance of inclusivity and equality. Our pupils are prepared to navigate a globalised world, valuing diversity and promoting social cohesion.

 

Through our outstanding History provision, we empower our pupils to become knowledgeable, critical, and empathetic citizens who are equipped to engage with the wider world. We foster a lifelong love for learning about the past and enable our pupils to make meaningful connections between history, their own lives, and the society in which they live.

History Subject Policy

If you want further information about the curriculum content your child is covering please  speak to your child's class teacher or call the school office to arrange an appointment to see the subject leader, Miss Jukes.

Top