Intent
At St. George’s Catholic School, our aim is for children to develop a breadth of understanding about the past and to become proficient Historians. We want pupils to confidently analyse primary and secondary sources, explaining how these provide insight into historical events and evaluating their reliability. As secure and thoughtful Historians, they will understand the significance of past events and how these have shaped the world we live in today.
Pupils will build upon prior learning, using this knowledge to deepen their understanding and engage in high-level discussions with both peers and teachers. Curiosity, critical thinking and a passion for learning about the past are central to our vision.
Implementation
Our History curriculum is designed to meet all objectives and skill requirements outlined in the National Curriculum. It provides clear progression through carefully planned, sequential and coherent lessons from year to year.
Four key concepts run throughout the curriculum to ensure children continually build on prior knowledge:
Hierarchy and Power
Everyday Life
Invasion and Settlement
Legacy
Every lesson begins with a retrieval task to strengthen long-term memory, reinforce prior learning and help pupils make meaningful links between topics. Children revisit previous content regularly, ensuring their knowledge is secure and continually built upon.
Subject-specific vocabulary and content are taught in a logical and structured sequence, supported by knowledge organisers that help pupils retain new facts. Learning is enriched through ‘hands-on’ experiences and regular exploration of a wide range of resources that enhance disciplinary skills and develop historical vocabulary.
Impact
Through our History curriculum, children will confidently recall key content, ask and answer meaningful questions, and participate in informed discussions. They will understand the influence of both local and global History on their lives today and be able to articulate these connections clearly.
By developing analytical skills, secure knowledge and thoughtful reflection, pupils will leave St. George’s as curious, capable and articulate Historians who appreciate the relevance and importance of the past.