History

At the Vale Primary, we want our children to be inquisitive and to question the information they are presented with to further their historical understanding. History explores culture, beliefs and values that help pupils to develop an understanding of themselves and others; pupils learn about similarities, differences, and diversity and how we live in an interdependent global world. We want children to understand how they, their family and friends are linked to the historical fabric of their local area, country, and the world.  

A high-quality history education will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It should inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past. Teaching should equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History helps pupils to understand 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.

A historian needs:

• Thorough investigative and research skills 
• Good communication skills 
• An interest in human behaviour, culture, and society 

An enquiring mind

What does history look like at The Vale Primary?

History teaching focuses on enabling pupils to think as historians. An emphasis is placed on examining primary and secondary sources including historical artefacts, pictures, and texts. Where appropriate, pupils are given the opportunity to visit sites of historical significance. Teachers at The Vale recognise and value the importance of stories in history teaching and as an important way of stimulating curiosity about the past. We focus on helping pupils understand that historical events can be interpreted in different ways and that they are encouraged to ask critical questions when looking at the origins of sources.

Key Stage 1

During key stage 1, pupils develop an awareness of the past, using common words and phrases relating to the passing of time. They are taught to know where the people and events they study fit within a chronological framework and identify similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods. They use a wide vocabulary of everyday historical terms, which is provided at the start of each new historical unit. Pupils are encouraged to ask and answer questions, referring to the historical stories and/or stories used within the teaching.

Key Stage 2

In key stage 2 pupils continue to develop a chronologically secure knowledge and understanding of British, local and world history, establishing clear narratives within and across the periods they study. They are encouraged to make connections between historical events and similarities between empires and civilisations over time and develop the appropriate use of historical terms.  Pupils will be supported and encouraged to devise historically valid questions to further their understanding of the period of history, as well as making links to the personal histories of the class and the significance to their current lives.  Children are supported to consider the impact of historical events to living memory and how this influences their lives and those of their family and peers.  Encouraging this level of discourse is of importance to support children in the development of their cultural capital. Across all stages of teaching and learning in history, we endeavour to create strong and appropriate links with other subjects to enhance the curriculum and learning experience.