Intent
At Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, our aim is to deliver a History education which inspires our pupils to develop a lifelong interest in the past. Our intent is to cultivate their understanding of both Britain and the wider world’s past, through the study of historical events, significant figures, and the diversity of human experience across various time periods. We want pupils to be curious, appreciative and resilient in history learning, and we seek to broaden pupils’ experiences of history, both in and outside of school. Our History curriculum is designed to:
- Encourage our pupils to think critically and ask pertinent questions about historical sources, interpretations, and narratives.
- Equip our pupils with the skills to use historical terms accurately, interpret evidence thoughtfully, and communicate their understanding effectively.
- Foster an appreciation for different cultures, social structures, and pivotal historical moments, promoting values of empathy and respect for diversity, in line with our Catholic values.
- Embed our rich local history into the curriculum, allowing pupils to connect with their community's heritage; understand how national events impact local lives, and the accomplishments that have enabled them to enjoy their lives today.
Our curriculum, taken from the Keystage History schemes of work and the National Curriculum expectations, is tailored to meet the unique needs and interests of our pupils, ensuring a high-quality educational experience that prepares them for future learning.
Implementation
To effectively deliver our History curriculum, we adopt a carefully sequenced approach that builds on prior knowledge and actively engages pupils in their learning. Our history curriculum is implemented through:
- A focus on inquiry-based learning, in which our pupils actively engage with historical topics by asking questions, researching using primary and secondary sources, evaluating evidence, and forming their own conclusions about the past.
- Use of thematic units that interlink key concepts and events, enabling our pupils to make connections across different periods and cultures. This approach fosters deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.
- Adoption of a variety of active learning strategies, including group and paired work, role-play, and field trips, to enhance engagement and inspire curiosity. By encouraging practical experiences, we make history tangible and relatable.
- Employing a range of high-quality resources, including historical artefacts, primary sources, literature, and digital tools. This variety caters to different learning styles and enriches our pupils' exploration of historical themes.
- Regular and ongoing assessment through pupil observations, discussions, and reflective tasks. These assessments inform our planning, allowing for tailored interventions to support all learners.
- Regular training and collaboration sessions for our teaching staff to ensure they remain knowledgeable about historical content and pedagogical approaches.
Impact
The impact of our History curriculum at Holy Cross can be evidenced in a variety of ways:
- Observational data and pupil feedback demonstrate high levels of enthusiasm and participation in History lessons.
- End of unit assessments reflect improved historical knowledge and critical reasoning skills as our pupils progress through each key stage.
- Pupil voice gained indicates that our pupils are developing a broader understanding of cultural diversity and historical perspectives, contributing to an inclusive school community and instilling lifelong values of respect and empathy in accordance with Catholic teachings.
- The skills and knowledge acquired in History are evident in cross-curricular links with subjects such as English, Art, and Geography, enhancing the overall educational experience and providing a coherent context for learning.
“A person without the knowledge of their past, history or culture is like a tree without roots.”
Marcus Garvey