History

Intent

At Bryn St Peter’s CE Primary School, we believe that a high-quality History education helps pupils gain a secure understanding of the past and how it shapes the present and the future. Through the teaching of History, we aim to inspire pupils’ curiosity about Britain’s past and that of the wider world, enabling them to develop a sense of identity, chronology and cultural understanding.
We intend for all pupils to develop a coherent knowledge of historical events, people and periods, while also understanding how historians use evidence to form interpretations of the past. Our History curriculum encourages pupils to ask questions, think critically, weigh evidence and develop perspective and judgement.
We aim to provide an engaging, broad and balanced curriculum that reflects the diversity of society and supports pupils in understanding different cultures, beliefs and ways of life. As a Church of England school, we also seek to help pupils understand how faith, values and beliefs have influenced individuals, communities and historical events. Through History, pupils develop respect for others, an appreciation of change over time and an understanding of their place in the world.

Implementation

History is taught through a carefully planned, progressive curriculum that follows the National Curriculum and ensures clear progression in knowledge, skills and vocabulary from the Foundation Stage to Year 6. Units of learning are organised chronologically where appropriate, allowing pupils to develop a secure understanding of time, sequence and historical periods.
Lessons are designed to build substantive knowledge alongside disciplinary skills, including the ability to ask historical questions, interpret evidence, compare sources and understand different viewpoints. Teachers use high-quality resources, artefacts, texts, images and visits to bring learning to life and to support pupils in developing a deeper understanding of the past.
Key historical concepts such as chronology, change and continuity, cause and consequence, similarity and difference, and historical significance are revisited throughout the school so that pupils can build on prior learning. Vocabulary is explicitly taught to help pupils communicate their ideas clearly and accurately.
Cross-curricular links are made where appropriate, particularly with English, Geography and RE, to strengthen understanding and provide meaningful contexts for learning. Teaching is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND, through scaffolding, questioning, practical activities and targeted support.
Assessment is ongoing through questioning, discussion, written work and quizzes, allowing teachers to identify gaps in understanding and ensure that knowledge is retained over time.

Impact

The impact of our History curriculum is seen in pupils who develop a secure knowledge of the past and an understanding of how history has shaped the world in which they live. Pupils are able to place events in chronological order, make connections between different periods of time and explain how and why change has happened.
Children show curiosity about the past and are able to ask thoughtful questions, use evidence to support their ideas and recognise that historical events can be interpreted in different ways. They develop confidence in discussing their learning and using appropriate historical vocabulary.
Pupils gain an appreciation of different cultures, beliefs and experiences, helping them to develop respect, tolerance and understanding of others. They leave Bryn St Peter’s with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to continue their study of History at secondary school and with a strong sense of how the past influences their lives today.

History Inclusion Statement

At our school, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and able to achieve their full potential. We recognise that all pupils are unique, with different strengths, needs, backgrounds and learning styles. We actively promote equality of opportunity and aim to remove barriers to learning so that all children can participate fully in school life.

We celebrate diversity and foster a culture of kindness, understanding, and mutual respect. All staff work collaboratively to support pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development, ensuring that every child feels safe, supported and included.

History Adaptation Statement

We understand that some pupils may require additional support or adjustments to access the History curriculum effectively. Teaching is therefore adapted to meet the individual needs of all learners through a range of strategies, including adapted tasks, flexible teaching approaches, targeted interventions, and the use of appropriate resources or assistive technologies. We also work closely with parents, carers, and external professionals to ensure that adaptations are meaningful, inclusive, and responsive to each child’s needs.  Further details of this can be found within the History policy.