History

History Intent

At Highfield we aim to ensure that all pupils gain:

• a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world which helps to stimulate pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past
• an ability to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement
• an understanding of 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. 

Enquiry based lessons provide an opportunity to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. They will understand how the past impacts on the present and future.

Implementation

In the Infants, the starting point is personal histories and themes, which link ‘then and now’, as children begin to abstract the passage of time. At the Junior school, topics are studied chronologically to enable children to build on their knowledge and key skills, and to make links in their learning. Children evaluate primary and secondary sources, questioning their reliability and developing an understanding of why change has happened and how people felt about it.

School trips, or learning experiences beyond the classroom, help immerse children in the period studied. Local history is incorporated, where possible, to provide context. We endeavour to represent the diversity of our school community (ethnicity, gender, disability and neurodiversity) when studying history so that children can see themselves within our curriculum.

Impact

From studying history at Highfield, we want to foster an interest and curiosity in the past, ensuring all children have an appreciation and understanding of how people and events have shaped the modern world in which they live.