Subject Vision

At Earl Spencer Primary School, we believe that a high-quality history education will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. Our curriculum is designed to inspire pupil’s curiosity to know more about the past. Teaching equips our pupils to have an understanding of the past and how history will shape their future. We believe that high-quality lessons should encourage critical thinking and rich discussion.

This helps pupils 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.

Intent

Our aim is to provide a curriculum that enables pupils to develop an appreciation and understanding of the past, evaluating a range of primary and secondary sources. Our historians will also be able to explain clearly how these sources give us an insight about how people around the world used to live and how these interpretations may differ. Pupils will be taught to make links between these areas of learning, with the aim of developing engaged, motivated and curious learners that can reflect on the past and make meaningful links to the present day. Our History curriculum has been designed to cover all of the skills, knowledge and understanding as set out in the National Curriculum.

Implementation

At Earl Spencer Primary School, History is taught following the Cornerstones scheme of work. It intends to inspire pupils to develop their knowledge and understanding of the past. Lesson plans and resources will help build on prior knowledge, alongside learning new skills. Cross-curricular links will play an important part of embedding what the pupils have learnt in their History lessons, by applying their knowledge and skills to core subjects. The Cornerstones scheme and the History subject lead will support teachers in their teaching. A regular programme of monitoring, evaluation and review will contribute to the ongoing commitment to evolve and improve further.

Impact

Pupils are confident and able to talk about what they have learnt using subject specific vocabulary. Pupil voice also demonstrates that pupils enjoy history and are able to recall their learning over time. Pupils will be confident using a range of sources to investigate and support their enquiries. Pupils work demonstrates that history is taught at an age appropriate standard across each year group with opportunities planned in for pupils working at greater depth. Work is of good quality and demonstrates pupils are acquiring knowledge, skills and vocabulary in an appropriate sequence. The teaching of History will show a clear progression of skills from the EYFS through to Year 6.