History

Intent 

At Salehurst Primary School, pupils learn and engage with History through a wide range of enriched learning opportunities in and outside the classroom. Pupils are encouraged to think like Historians and develop their skills, including Historical enquiry as well as building on their knowledge and understanding of the past. The curriculum is carefully planned taking into account children’s interest as well as revisiting and building upon key concepts.  

As stated in the History National Curriculum 2014: ‘pupils gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It should inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past. That teaching equips pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. Pupils should begin to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time.’ 

Implementation 

Each year group teaches at least one History based topic per year. Within those topics, History is taught as a discrete subject in Key Stage 1 and 2, focusing on the knowledge and skills stated in the National Curriculum.  History lessons are planned so there is a progression of skills throughout the school. Cross-curricular links are made to other subjects, particular in English, where key texts are linked, making it a fully immersed experience for pupils. Reading is linked to our History topics through reading different sources and conducting research as well as new vocabulary that is introduced at the beginning of each new topic. 

In EYFS, children are taught through the seven areas of Learning and Development. History plays a key role within Understanding the World where children are guided to make sense of the physical world and community through playing and exploring, active learning and creating and thinking critically 

By the end of key stage 2, Children will have a chronological understanding of events from stone- age to present day. Pupils are able to make comparisons and connections between different time periods and their own lives.  

Pupils are given the opportunity to experience History first-hand through educational visits, visitors and workshops within school. Children explore the History of Robertsbridge and the local area, including the seaside and woodlands. These whole school topics are taught in collaboration with our Federated Primary School in Staplecross. 

Impact 

Pupils develop a wide range of Historical knowledge and skills throughout their time at Salehurst. History and English books demonstrate key skills as well as evidence of a broad and balanced curriculum. Through pupil interviews, children are able to talk enthusiastically about their History learning.  

By the end of year 6, children will have a clear understanding of where we are now and the events that have impacted on the world we live in today. Pupils will leave as inquisitive learners and be able to pose historical questions about things that interest them.