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History

At Knowsley Village school, we are committed to providing a rich and engaging history curriculum that allows our pupils to explore and understand both Britain’s past and the history of the wider world. Through the study of history, we aim to inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and help children develop a lifelong love of the subject.

Our history curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum supported by Curriculum Maestro while ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their starting point, are able to access and enjoy the subject. The curriculum is progressive, allowing children to build on their knowledge and understanding over time, developing a coherent sense of chronology and a deeper appreciation of how history has shaped the world we live in today.

Our Aims in Teaching History

We have developed our history curriculum around several key aims, which are central to the learning experience of every child:

  1. To Inspire Curiosity and Enjoyment of the Past
    We encourage pupils to ask questions, explore, and investigate significant historical events and figures. We aim to spark curiosity about the past, enabling children to develop a love of history and a desire to discover more.
  2. To Understand Significant Events in British History
    Our curriculum ensures that pupils learn about key events in British history, such as the Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Medieval England, the Tudors, the Victorians, and both World Wars. This allows children to appreciate how Britain has changed over time and how these events have shaped modern society.
  3. To Develop a Sense of Chronology
    A strong sense of time is essential for understanding history. Our pupils develop an understanding of how events are sequenced in time, from ancient civilizations to the modern world. We ensure they grasp how history unfolds over long periods and how different historical periods connect.
  4. To Explore the Wider European and Global Context
    Our curriculum includes study of European history, exploring key events such as the Roman Empire, and Ancient Greece. Pupils also explore global history, learning about significant civilizations and historical developments around the world, such as The Shang Dynasty of Ancient China.
  5. To Understand Society and Cultural Heritage
    Studying history helps children develop a sense of their place within society and an appreciation of their cultural heritage. By learning about the diverse experiences of people in different times and places, pupils build empathy and respect for others.
  6. To Develop Skills of Enquiry and Critical Thinking
    We equip children with essential historical skills: enquiry, investigation, analysis, evaluation, interpretation, and problem-solving. Pupils are encouraged to question historical evidence, weigh up different viewpoints, and consider the motivations behind historical events.

History Across the School

From Reception to Year 6, pupils are introduced to a broad range of historical topics, each carefully sequenced to build on prior knowledge and skills. In the early years, children begin by exploring their own personal history and the world around them. As they progress through the school, they study a range of periods and themes, moving from local and national history to world history, allowing them to make connections between different historical periods.

Developing Empathy and Understanding

One of the key aspects of studying history is developing empathy for people in the past. We encourage our pupils to think critically about the actions of historical figures, to understand the context in which decisions were made, and to consider the impact those decisions had on individuals and societies. Through this process, pupils develop important life skills such as empathy, perspective-taking, and moral reasoning.

Our Vision for History

By the time they leave our school, pupils will have a coherent understanding of Britain’s past and its place in the wider world. They will be confident historians, able to question, analyse, and present historical information. Above all, they will have developed a lasting love for history, an appreciation for how the past has shaped the present, and a curiosity to continue learning about the world around them.

We believe that history is not just about the past; it’s about how we understand the present and shape the future. By instilling a passion for history in our pupils, we help them build the skills and knowledge needed to become informed, engaged, and empathetic citizens.

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