History
Intent
At Rushton CE First School, we believe that the past influences all aspects of our lives. We live in a society that has been shaped by significant events and people of the past. It is important that our children understand how the customs and beliefs of the community, or communities, to which we belong, have been shaped by these events and the actions of individuals. In a world where societies are becoming increasingly diverse, it is important for children to understand cultural, national and international history as a way of creating a shared identity and interconnections. Through the teaching of a high quality history curriculum, we aim to equip children with the skills to become increasingly independent critical and analytical thinkers. We want them to develop a secure understanding of the chronology of important historical events and time periods. In planning and delivering interesting and engaging activities, we want to inspire and motivate them to ask questions and find answers through different methods of historical enquiry. We aim to foster enthusiasm and intrigue about the past through the use of artefacts, the invitation of visitors to our school and through the participation in educational visits.
Implement
History is an essential part of learning in the Foundation Stage as it is incorporated in everyday learning. The historical aspects of the children’s work relate to the objectives set out in the early learning goals (ELGs) for Understanding the World, more specifically People and Communities. History is taught throughout the EYFS both in short adult inputs and continuous provision activities.
In KS1 and KS2, the history curriculum is planned and delivered on a two-year cycle, due to the mixed age classes. History is taught as part of a termly, of half-termly topic.
In KS1, children learn about small snapshots of history by considering changes within living memory to help them to understand that history is always being made. They will also look at local history; learning about significant historical events, people and places in their own locality should develop their understanding of how their homes have been shaped by the past. They will start to look at history on a national and global scale by studying key people and events which have influenced how we live today.
In KS2, children will begin to study specific periods of time in more detail. Due to mixed age classes, these periods cannot be taught in chronological order. In order for children to be able to build-up a secure understanding of chronology, from ancient history to modern history, time-line activities are incorporated into each topic and regularly re-visited. Each child also compiles their own dictionary of historical terms to develop their progressive use of appropriate and accurate language. Children will continue to develop their concepts of historical enquiry by beginning to differentiate between primary and secondary sources and make independent evaluations of historical events.
Impact
The impact and measure of our curriculum provision is to ensure that children at Rushton will be able to understand historical concepts and have an understanding of how they have shaped the world that we live in today. The will have a secure understanding of chronology and use a rich vocabulary. They will be equipped with transferrable skills that will support their learning in all areas of the curriculum as they continue along their educational journey and in preparation for adult life. Alongside this, we aim to foster passion and enthusiasm for history.