Vision
We believe that it is important for children to study history so that they understand past events that have shaped the modern world.
We believe that children develop respect and tolerance for others through examining the reasons behind past events.
We believe that children who learn about the mistakes of the past will be passionate about making fair and just decisions in the future.
In EYFS, children should learn about their own lives and family histories and the lives of those around them. They should develop an understanding of past and present and start to talk about similarities and differences over time.
In KS1, children should develop their awareness of the past, commenting on similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods, and learning how these periods fit together.
In KS2, children should continue to develop a chronologically secure knowledge and understanding of British, local and world history.
Throughout their time in school, children are encouraged to use historical vocabulary, to ask and answer questions and to form their own opinions about the past, based on relevant and reliable historical information.
History is taught in termly units, alternating with geography. EYFS topics are often informed by the interests of the children but are also linked to KS1, which follow a two-year cycle of topics; this cycle focuses particularly on significant people and events, change over time, and local history. KS2 follow a four-year cycle, studying historical periods, people and events. Wherever possible, meaningful links are made with the local area so that children develop their understanding of the impact of world events on their own communities.
The cycle of topics is currently under review, but the topics for the current academic year are as follows:
Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
KS1 | Changes within living memory (toys, transport, etc) | Geography | The lives of significant individuals |
KS2 | A significant turning point in history: the impact of the Industrial Revolution | Geography | A non-European Society: The Mayan Civilisation |
Knowledge is retained through extensive use of the Knowledge Organisers which accompany each Unit and, wherever possible, through first hand learning experiences which help cement vivid learning into the minds of our children.
(above) Men who were evacuated to Woolsery during World War Two, and those who hosted them, recall their memories with the children