History @ St. Benedict's C oF E VA Junior School

 

 

 

 

Intent

At St Benedict’s C of E VA Junior School it is our aim to inspire a love of History in all our children. We aim to provide a History curriculum with subject knowledge, skills and understanding as set out in the National Curriculum Programme of study. The History curriculum at St Benedict’s draws from and makes full use of the immediate and wider local area, enabling children to develop a deep understanding of the rich history of their locality. As part of our school vision for our pupils to appreciate 'Life in all its Fullness' (John 10:10), our children are taught about various historical events, where they take place within a historical timeline and famous historical figures, some of which have shaped the world today.

Implementation

As a school, we maintain strong links to the National Curriculum guidelines to ensure all aspects, knowledge and skills of History are being taught across all year groups. We use progression grids providing clear skills, knowledge and vocabulary throughout the school.

Our History topics enhance the wider curriculum and where appropriate we use historical artefacts, visitors, workshops and visits to excite and intrigue our children to find out more about events and people from the past. The school has established links with The Rural Life Museum through The South West Heritage Trust and is easily accessible, within walking distance. We are also fortunate to have Glastonbury Abbey and The Tor on our doorstep. We aim to give our children as much understanding as possible about what it was like to be around at a particular period in history by having practical and realistic lessons where possible such as Victorian workshops where children experience life in a Victorian classroom. Before a new topic commences, each child is given a Knowledge Organiser which provides information for prior learning such as key events, vocabulary and timelines. Teachers refer to these timelines to develop children’s understanding of chronology.

Impact

Through ‘pupil voice’ children will be able to talk about the skills and knowledge they have acquired throughout their time at St Benedict’s. Children will be engaged in History lessons and want to find out more by researching independently through projects and homework and to further their own enjoyment about the subject or topic.

Children’s work will illustrate the range of topics covered and presented in floorbooks in each year group. The school environment will be history rich through displays and resources.