Curriculum Intent

We provide our students with a diverse and rich curriculum. They look at local, British and world history and develop an understanding of the different people, cultures and the events that have shaped our lives.

Knowledge

All people are living histories, so understanding the linkages between past and present is absolutely fundamental for a good understanding of the human condition. It is not just “useful”, it is essential. Learning history is more than just facts and dates for our pupils, but the feeling of the past; the myth, the magic and the mysteries that we ourselves can attempt to unfold.

Purpose

To quote William Faulkner, “the past is not past”; the stories, ideas and values of historical events and people determine the world we live in. Studying history allows our pupils to develop a better understanding of the world around them whilst cultivating a sense of identity linked to their local and national community. Moreover, in a world where it is increasingly difficult to sift opinion from fact, the skills developed in history can provide our students with objectivity and tolerance to view the world with through critical, but empathetic, eyes.

Proactivity

Curiosity – Historical thought involves highly critical thinking skills and a curiosity displayed by asking questions of the past (the who, why, what, when and how). We also encourage our pupils to show curiosity through engaging with family, local, national and international histories.

Commitment – We want our pupils to develop their skills of being a historian and show perseverance in strengthening their abilities to analyse sources, evaluate historical interpretations and weigh up evidence to form judgements on the past.

Courage – Students will feel empowered to not only form well-reasoned opinions, but share these and debate them with their peers. Our pupils should also develop resilience and confidence in tackling challenging extended writing tasks to demonstrate these historical judgements.

Curriculum Map

Curriclum Map. Click for more details