Why we teach history

At Lings, our aim is to for all children to develop an interest and enthusiasm of history. We believe that having knowledge, understanding and curiosity of the past helps us to make sense of our lives today. An understanding of history on a local, national and global level will allow our children to appreciate how things have changed over time and how the past has made an impact on modern life. Our history curriculum helps children to understand important historical eras, figures and events, and during their time with us, children will develop their own sense of chronology and a comprehensive historical timeline ranging from some of the earliest times to the modern day. We want children to understand the society they live in and their place within it, as well as developing their sense of cultural heritage.

Children will also learn vital skills of enquiry, investigation, analysis, evaluation and presentation through the teaching of history. They will be taught to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, consider different viewpoints, and develop perspective and judgement.

How we teach history

The teaching of history at Lings begins in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) who follow the ‘Development Matters in the EYFS’ guidance which aims for all children in reception to have an ‘Understanding of the World; people and communities, the world and technology’ by the end of the academic year.

In Key Stage 1 and 2, we use the NPAT-written curriculum, which is based around and informed by the National Curriculum) to teach a wide range of history topics. During Key Stage 1, children will develop their knowledge of significant individuals and historic events that occurred nationally or within their locality. Topics include The Great Fire of Northampton, the Northampton boot and shoe industry, and the study of notable historical figures such as Mary Seacole and Christopher Columbus.

In Key Stage 2, children will gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. They will study a range of time periods and continue to study aspects of local history. Topics include longer historical eras such as the Stone Age, periods from other countries, such as the Romans, and events that had global impact, such as World War Two.  The knowledge and content taught is introduced in a progressive and coherent way that allows children to gradually build their sense of chronology and make links between the different topics studied.

History is taught in 3 of the 6 terms across the year, alternating with the teaching and learning of geography.

The history curriculum has been designed to ensure diversity in the historical figures and eras children learn about.

Where possible, we look to take learning out of the classroom and invite in visitors who can enhance the children’s enthusiasm and understanding of history. This has included a Year 3 visit to Chester House to learn about the Romans and a Year 4 visit to Delapre Abbey to learn about Northampton’s involvement in the War of the Roses.

Subject Documents