Intent: 

At FHIS we provide children with a challenging and engaging history curriculum that inspires a curiosity and fascination. We want them to have a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. Through studying a variety of historical periods and concepts, they should develop a chronological narrative, from the earliest times to the present day. They should appreciate how people’s lives have shaped the nation and how Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world.  

We aim to build on key historical knowledge, understanding and skills. As we draw our pupils from a wide catchment, with many children having English as an additional language, we start with ensuring pupils have a strong understanding of historical language. 

 

Implementation: 

We begin with a child-centred approach to history by exploring changes within their own lives and within living memory. They explore events that are significant locally and nationally and the lives of significant individuals who have contributed to national and international achievements. Even from a very early age, children are exposed to methods of historical enquiry and how evidence is used to make historical claims. 

We motivate and enthuse pupils by creating deep links with other curriculum areas including English, maths, science, geography and art. Wherever possible, we use first-hand experiences and fieldwork to deepen their understanding of history. We aim to provide some off-site experiences with a specific historical focus so that children can strengthen their understanding through first-hand experiences. We use a range of historical sources of evidence and utilise artefacts, drama, role-play, visiting experts and the latest technology to bring the subject to life. This ensures that their curiosity and fascination are maintained and that history is delivered in an exciting and engaging way.  

Our history curriculum is designed to allow children time to think, discuss, practise, explore and embed. This allows time for teaching, practice and repetition – both in a year group and across key stage 1. Curriculum coverage is mapped out carefully from EYFS to Year 2 which allows some key concepts to be developed at a deeper level of learning, understanding and mastery. Fundamental knowledge and skills are covered at key points throughout the key stage and repeated to allow pupils to build on what has been taught before. Lessons will be planned and a knowledge organiser provided for pupils, which outlines the area to be taught, where the new knowledge and skills fit in with their prior learning, any sticky knowledge they need to understand and key vocabulary they need to learn.