History is the systematic study and documentation of the human past. The study of history will help pupils to gain coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It should inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past. History 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.

At Skinners’ Kent Primary School, we aspire to equip pupils with a critical understanding of the past.  A strong knowledge of history allows pupils to develop not only an understanding of the world they live in today, but an understanding of how it has changed throughout history. It enables them to develop an understanding of how events in the past have shaped the world, and to realise that history can help us to make better decisions today. 

Intent 

We aim for every pupil to foster an enthusiasm and curiosity about history and learning about the past through an engaging and varied curriculum.    We recognise the importance of equipping our pupils with a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world in which we live.   By allowing pupils to discuss and explore their own history, the history of our local area, wider Britain and the world, pupils develop a secure sense of chronology, and acquire a sense of time, events and significant people throughout history. 

We understand the importance of teaching pupils about the complexity of people’s lives throughout history.   We aspire to equip all pupils with a thirst for knowledge about the past and with a strong historical understanding of Britain and the wider world; by drawing upon their own identity and challenges within their lifetime, pupils can begin to understand themselves and their own place in society.  

Implementation  

At SKPS, our history curriculum is planned in line with the knowledge and skills outlined in the National Curriculum through KS1 and KS2 and in Reception, the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. 'Understanding the World' involves guiding children to make sense of their physical world and their community through opportunities to explore, observe and find out about people, places, technology and the environment.  We develop a conceptual understanding, and then enable the pupils to explore and understand the history associated with Tunbridge Wells and Kent, and then significant periods of history nationally and globally.  

We use Hamilton Trust as a basis for planning to ensure consistency and progression throughout the school.  This also develops a strong understanding of chronology.  Lessons begin with a recap of prior knowledge and introduction of new vocabulary, which is built upon through units of work.  Hamilton trust planning is appropriately adapted to allow for opportunities to link pupils’ learning of the past to the history of our local area and themselves.  History objectives and units are clearly planned across all year groups, ensuring a progressive and interesting curriculum for all.  Opportunities are regularly given to find out about significant people who have had an impact on our lives today.  Through our historical studies, we explore the diversity of societies and how these change over time also.   

We aim to go on a school trip with a history focus at least every other year.  This provides pupils with the ‘hands on’ experience of historical learning and evidence left behind.  It also allows pupils to consolidate learning in a real world context, as well as creating enthusiasm for the subject. 

Impact 

The impact of history teaching is assessed in a variety of ways. Throughout each history lesson and topic, teachers formatively assess through questioning and observation of pupils’ learning and use this to inform and adapt future learning.  Hamilton Trust planning allows for prior knowledge and skills to be revisited and assessed also.  Book scans and informal learning walks are used by the Subject Leader to gain an insight of history teaching in practise throughout the school.  Informal interviews with pupils also allow us to gain an insight into learning that has been achieved and pupils’ ability to recall key learning.