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History

History helps children understand the past and how it shapes the present. At Bawnmore, we encourage pupils to ask questions, make connections, and develop a sense of identity and chronology. We want them to see themselves as part of history and to develop curiosity about people and events from different times. This supports our golden thread—strong relationships, emotional wellbeing, and a love of learning—and reflects our school values of honesty, respect, and resilience.

Curriculum

Our history curriculum is ambitious, inclusive, and carefully sequenced from Early Years to Year 2. We aim for children to:

  • Understand significant people, events, and changes over time
  • Develop a sense of chronology and use historical vocabulary
  • Compare aspects of life in different periods
  • Ask thoughtful questions and think critically about the past

In Reception, history learning happens through discussions about family, change, and past and present. In KS1, children explore topics such as the Great Fire of London, the history of toys, significant monarchs, and local history including castles.

Teaching

Teaching in history is interactive, enquiry-led, and brought to life through:

  • Role play, artefacts, storytelling, and themed days
  • Visits from historians and local history experiences
  • Use of timelines and sequencing activities to develop chronological understanding
  • Explicit teaching of historical vocabulary
  • Opportunities for discussion and reflection on different viewpoints

Positive relationships and high-quality interactions ensure children feel confident to share ideas and ask questions.

Achievement

By the end of Key Stage 1, children:

  • Talk confidently about significant historical figures and events
  • Use the language of time (past, present, before, after)
  • Compare aspects of life in different periods
  • Ask thoughtful questions and express their ideas
  • Recognise the impact of past events on life today

The golden thread is evident in their ability to collaborate, show respect for different perspectives, and reflect on lessons from the past.

SEND and Inclusion

History is accessible to all learners through:

  • Visual timelines, photos, artefacts, and videos
  • Storytelling and role play to support understanding
  • Scaffolded discussions and adapted tasks to ensure success

Full details of our history curriculum can be found in our History Curriculum Document.

 

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