Intent 

At Hartsfield, we believe children deserve a broad and ambitious history curriculum, rich in skills and knowledge.  We recognise that history forms a base for our understanding of the culture in which we live as well as the wider world around us.  Along with providing a depth of historical knowledge, we want pupils to be inspired, develop their curiosity and encourage them to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments and develop perspective and judgement.  We want them to be able to transfer these historical skills to whatever period of history is being studied and to equip children for future learning.  Through the teaching of history, we endeavour to give the children the skills to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, with a view to helping them recognise their own identity and the challenges of their time.  Our lessons will be engaging and allow the children to develop their historical knowledge and skills, supported by our knowledgeable teachers.  Topics are often extended through immersive activities and trips to deepen children’s understanding. Potential barriers to learning will be addressed through additional support and provision of opportunities for enhancing cultural capital wherever possible such as resources and ensuring children are involved in visits. 

Implementation 

The history curriculum covers a range of knowledge and skills, progressing as children move through their time at Hartsfield.  Our curriculum is guided by the Early Years Framework and the National Curriculum for history.  Please see the progression document for the milestones.  To achieve these, staff deliver high-quality, progressive lessons based on topics providing good opportunities for knowledge and skills development.  Topics are introduced with reference to the chronology of previous topics (including those from previous years).  At the beginning of the topic, children are encouraged to share what they already know and what they wish to learn and this helps to make the programme of study responsive to the children’s interests.  Key Stage 1 use the Plan Bee programme of study as the basis of their lessons, while Key Stage Two use a range of resources to develop an inspiring programme of study, including Connected History.  These were chosen as they offer appropriate levels of challenge and ‘stretch’ materials for the units.  Continual support for SEND/PPG children is provided through a variety of measures including opportunities to develop cultural capital and appropriately pitched, supported tasks.  Staff continuously seek to encourage and develop inquisitiveness through their lessons.