History

Curriculum Intent 

At St. George’s, we aim to inspire a curiosity and fascination with history. Our history curriculum will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and the wider world; changes in living memory and beyond; learn about the lives of significant people; understand the methods of historical enquiry and be able to ask and answer questions. We want to inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about history, not just through experiences in the classroom, but also with the use of trips and educational visits and visitors.

Our history curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the past through an enquiry-led approach. Rooted in our Christian vision, we aim to cultivate a sense of respect and empathy for others, while fostering a rich appreciation of the diverse societies, cultures, and events that have shaped our world.

Our history curriculum encourages children to ask questions, think critically, use evidence, and develop arguments. Through an enquiry led curriculum, pupils explore key historical questions, enabling them to form their own interpretations of the past.

Pupils will gain a secure understanding of chronology and the key historical periods from local, national, and global perspectives. They will explore how events have shaped society and reflect on themes such as change, continuity, and causation.

Our history curriculum reflects the rich diversity of British history and the global context, encouraging pupils to appreciate different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Children will investigate stories from a wide range of backgrounds, fostering respect and inclusivity in line with our Christian vision. As part of this, we also aim to help children understand the history of modern Britain and their own identities.

History lessons encourage pupils to reflect on issues and moral dilemmas from the past, helping them to draw connections between historical events and their impact on individuals and society. Using the enquiry approach, we ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, actively participate in learning. Pupils are encouraged to investigate historical questions through collaborative learning, role-play, research, and presentations.

Each topic begins with an enquiry question to spark curiosity. Pupils will investigate this question through:

• Primary and Secondary Sources, encouraging the use of artefacts, documents, and eyewitness accounts to foster historical enquiry and source analysis.
• Discussion and Debate, engaging pupils in discussions and debates, helping them develop their reasoning, listening, and speaking skills.
• Project-Based Learning, offering opportunities for independent and group work, where pupils present their findings, deepening their understanding of historical events.

This enquiry-based approach ensures that pupils not only learn about history but also develop the skills to become reflective, thoughtful members of society.

At the heart of our history curriculum is the belief that learning about the past should shape pupils' sense of identity, values, and place in society. By embracing a spirit of enquiry, underpinned by our Christian vision, we aim to prepare children to understand the complexities of the world and make informed decisions in their future roles as part of society.