We believe that a well-rounded History curriculum will allow children to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. We have carefully designed our History curriculum so that children gain this knowledge as they progress through the school. We also recognise the important role that History plays in preparing our children with the skills they can use for life, raising their aspirations, understanding change and societal development and a context in which to understand themselves and others.
Through our History curriculum we aim to inspire pupils’ curiosity about the past and to know more about the class. We give our children time to think critically, reflect on arguments and evidence, ask perceptive questions and develop perspective and judgement. We want our children to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and the relationships between different groups as well as their own identify and the challenges of their time. We believe that teaching our children like this will enable them to develop life long skills to prepare them for high school and beyond.
Implementation
History is taught in blocks throughout the year, so that children can achieve depth in their learning. Teachers have identified the key knowledge and skills of each blocked topic and consideration has been given to ensure progression across topics throughout each year group across the school. At the beginning of each topic, children are able to convey what they know already as well as what they would like to find out. The use of year group knowledge books which travel with the children throughout their time at Howick are also used to explore previous learning and make links. This informs the programme of study and also ensures that lessons are relevant and take account of children’s different starting points. Consideration is given to how greater depth will be taught, learnt and demonstrated within each lesson, as well as how learners will be supported in line with the school’s commitment to inclusion.
Impact
Outcomes in books, pupil voice and photographs evidence a broad and balanced history curriculum and demonstrate children’s acquisition of identified key knowledge. Children review their successes in achieving the lesson objectives at the end of every session and are actively encouraged to identify their own target areas. As children progress throughout the school, they develop a deep knowledge, understanding an appreciation of present, recent past and history beyond the live of our families today.
Curriculum Overviews
Ancient Civilisations
In Class 4 we have enjoyed studying the Maya Civilisation.
Here are some of our magazine articles.
Ancient Weaving (with a modern twist) by Class 4
A Great Greek Experience
In Class 4 we loved learning more about Ancient Greece with our visitor Professor Tuesday from The Heritage Team.
