History
At Leopold Primary School, we aim to inspire pupils’ curiosity about the past and develop a secure understanding of how history has shaped the world we live in today. Through our curriculum, pupils gain a coherent knowledge of Britain’s past and the wider world, while developing their understanding of their own identity, heritage and the diverse society in which they live, including their local area.
Intent
Our history curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, ensuring that all pupils, regardless of background or starting point, gain a secure and meaningful understanding of historical concepts. We aim to:
- Develop pupils’ chronological awareness and understanding of key historical periods
- Build substantive knowledge of significant events, people, and civilisations
- Foster historical enquiry skills, enabling pupils to ask and answer questions about the past
- Encourage pupils to understand how evidence is used to make claims about history
- Promote an appreciation of diversity, including the history and culture of our local area, and the complexity of past societies
We want pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence and develop informed judgements about the past. Our curriculum ensures pupils develop an understanding of the history and culture of their local area, helping them to make meaningful connections between the past and the community in which they live.
Implementation
Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery and Reception)
In Nursery and Reception, we follow the Early Years Framework. Pupils begin to develop an understanding of the past through play-based and experiential learning. They explore similarities and differences between themselves and others, talk about past and present events in their own lives, and begin to understand the concept of time. Learning is language-rich and focused on building early vocabulary and curiosity about the world.
Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)
In Years 1 and 2, we follow the National Curriculum. Pupils develop their understanding of the past through the study of changes within living memory, significant individuals, and important events, including those linked to their local area. They begin to use historical vocabulary, ask simple questions, and develop an awareness of chronology. Learning builds on prior experiences and prepares pupils for more structured historical study.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6)
From Year 3 to Year 6, pupils follow the Opening Worlds curriculum. This knowledge-rich curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that pupils build a deep and connected understanding of history over time. Pupils study a broad range of periods and civilisations, including ancient societies, British history, local history, and world history, with a strong emphasis on:
- Developing secure chronological frameworks
- Understanding key concepts such as empire, civilisation, and society
- Making connections across time periods and geographical locations
- Engaging with high-quality texts and sources to support learning
Teaching is explicit and systematic, ensuring that pupils revisit and build upon prior knowledge. Vocabulary is carefully planned and taught to support pupils in articulating their understanding clearly and confidently.
Impact
Through our history curriculum, pupils develop a secure body of knowledge and the ability to think critically about the past. They become confident in discussing historical events, making connections, and using evidence to support their ideas.
Pupils understand how the past has shaped their local community, Britain and the wider world, and can make meaningful connections across different periods of history.
By the end of Year 6, pupils are well-prepared for secondary education, with a strong foundation in historical knowledge and skills. They demonstrate curiosity, respect for different perspectives, and an understanding of how the past continues to influence the present.
Supporting All Learners
Our history curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible for all pupils. Teachers use a range of strategies to support learning, including clear modelling, scaffolding, and the use of high-quality resources. Vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to support language development.
Where appropriate, learning is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND and those who require additional challenge. This may include targeted support, adapted tasks, or opportunities for deeper thinking and independent enquiry.
We are committed to ensuring that all pupils can access the full history curriculum and achieve success.
Supporting Learning at Home
Parents and carers play an important role in supporting children’s understanding of history. We encourage families to:
- Talk about the past and share family stories and experiences
- Visit local museums, historical sites, or places of interest
- Read books and watch documentaries related to topics studied in school
- Encourage curiosity by discussing historical events and asking questions
By working together, we can help pupils develop a deeper interest in and understanding of the world around them.