History

Approach to History

Rational:

At Bredgar Church of England Primary School, we are committed to delivering a dynamic and engaging history curriculum that nurtures our pupils' curiosity and fosters a deep understanding of the past. Our pedagogical framework encompasses a chronological approach, structured around a two-year cycle that aligns with our mixed-year group classes. Each academic year, we explore a distinct historical period, ensuring a comprehensive and cohesive educational experience.

Curriculum

The curriculum is divided into three terms, with every other term dedicated to a historical focus. The first term introduces an overarching perspective of the historical period in question, providing pupils with a broad context and foundational knowledge. We believe that a strong initial understanding sets the stage for deeper engagement. In the second term, we delve into a significant event from that period, allowing students to engage critically with pivotal moments in history. This method not only enhances their historical knowledge but also fosters an understanding of the complexities of cause and effect within the historical narrative. The third term is dedicated to an enquiry into a notable individual who made a substantial impact during this time, further personalising the historical narrative and enabling pupils to relate to historical figures in a meaningful way.

Throughout this curriculum, we emphasise a balanced combination of chronology, research, and source-based investigation. Our aim is to cultivate skills that extend beyond mere memorisation of facts; students are encouraged to inquire, question, analyse, and explain historical phenomena. This is achieved through open investigations and essential questioning techniques designed to promote critical thinking and active engagement with history. We ensure that pupils do not merely receive information passively; instead, they actively construct their understanding of the past.

Teaching Ethos:

This educational approach is firmly rooted in our school's ethos of serving the community while fostering compassion and courage within the framework of God's love. We believe that by engaging with history in a meaningful way, our pupils will not only develop a rich understanding of the past but will also embody the values we cherish as a Church of England school. The history curriculum serves as a conduit for instilling important life skills that resonate beyond the classroom.

Teaching Approach:

Furthermore, our teaching is organised within a five-stage format followed by the school. We begin with a review of our previous learning to reinforce and connect prior knowledge. This is followed by a well-considered and precise teaching stage, where new concepts are introduced directly. Practise is facilitated through an "I do, we do, you do" method, which scaffolds learning adequately. This is complemented by a consolidating activity that may be independent, partnered, or group-based, affording pupils the opportunity to apply their knowledge collaboratively. Finally, each session concludes with a reflection where we address our feelings about the learning, its impact on our knowledge and skills, and any personal connections to the work undertaken.

Assessment:

All teaching and learning throughout the term is supported through formative assessment, allowing for ongoing feedback and adaptation to meet the needs of each pupil. At the conclusion of each unit, summative activities provide a final assessment to gauge comprehension and retention of the material covered. This thorough and reflective approach to history education ensures that our pupils are not only informed citizens of the past but also active participants in shaping their understanding of the present and the future.