At Newton Burgoland Primary School, our history curriculum inspires children’s curiosity about the past and helps them develop a deeper understanding of the people, events and societies that have shaped Britain and the wider world. Through studying history, pupils gain valuable insight into how the past influences the present and how their own place in history is connected to the experiences of those who came before them.

History enables children to explore the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change over time, the diversity of societies and the relationships between different groups of people. As their knowledge grows, pupils develop a stronger sense of identity and a greater understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced by individuals and communities throughout history.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to build chronological understanding and historical knowledge across a range of periods and civilisations. Through enquiry-based learning, pupils are encouraged to become historians, developing their 'detective' skills as they ask perceptive questions, examine evidence, consider different interpretations and draw informed conclusions.

Children learn through a variety of engaging experiences, including high-quality texts, artefacts, educational visits and visitors to school. These opportunities bring history to life and help pupils develop essential skills such as critical thinking, analysis, empathy and communication.

As they progress through the school, children learn to weigh evidence, challenge assumptions and understand that history is constructed from different perspectives. We aim for all pupils to leave Newton Burgoland with a secure understanding of the past, an appreciation of how societies have evolved, and a lifelong curiosity about the stories, achievements and lessons that history can teach us.

History Progression

Our carefully planned progression ensures that children build their historical knowledge and skills year on year. Pupils develop an understanding of chronology, historical enquiry, interpretation, cause and consequence, similarity and difference, and historical significance. By revisiting and extending these concepts throughout their primary years, children become increasingly confident historians who can think critically about the past and make meaningful connections to the present.

Developing STRIDE Through History

History provides a powerful vehicle for developing the STRIDE characteristics that are central to life at Newton Burgoland Primary School. Through the study of people, events and societies from the past, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and values needed to become thoughtful, informed and compassionate citizens.

Scholarship is developed as children build a secure understanding of historical periods, significant individuals and key events that have shaped Britain and the wider world. Pupils learn to use evidence, make connections between periods of history and develop increasingly sophisticated historical vocabulary and understanding.

Teamwork is fostered through collaborative enquiries, discussions and investigations. Children work together to analyse sources, explore different viewpoints and share their interpretations of historical events, learning to value the contributions and ideas of others.

Resilience grows as pupils tackle challenging historical questions, evaluate conflicting evidence and revise their thinking when new information emerges. They learn that understanding the past requires perseverance, careful analysis and an open mind.

Independence is encouraged through historical enquiry. Children are supported to ask their own questions, investigate sources, draw conclusions and develop reasoned arguments based on evidence rather than assumption.

Diversity and Respect are embedded throughout the curriculum as pupils explore the lives, experiences and contributions of people from different cultures, communities and periods of history. They learn to appreciate diverse perspectives, challenge stereotypes and understand how societies have changed over time.

Enquiry, Creativity and Curiosity lies at the heart of historical learning. Children become historians by asking perceptive questions, examining artefacts and sources, weighing evidence and considering different interpretations of the past. They develop the skills to investigate, analyse and think critically about historical events and their significance. Children are encouraged to wonder about the past, imagine different viewpoints and develop a lifelong fascination with history and its relevance to modern life.

Through History, pupils gain a deeper understanding of how the past has shaped the world we live in today. As they progress through the school, they develop the STRIDE characteristics alongside the historical knowledge and enquiry skills needed to become informed, reflective and compassionate citizens who learn from the experiences of others and contribute positively to the future.