History at Christ Church

Our approach to teaching history is rooted in our Christian vision that every child is a unique gift from God and shaped by our core values of Love, Faith and Hope. We believe history helps pupils understand how the past has shaped the world they live in today, while developing curiosity, reflection and respect for the experiences of others.

Using the Kapow History scheme as the foundation for our curriculum, learning is carefully sequenced so that pupils build historical knowledge and understanding progressively from EYFS to Year 6. Units are designed to revisit and deepen key concepts such as chronology, civilisation, invasion, democracy and legacy, enabling pupils to make meaningful links across different periods of history. This reflects the school’s wider focus on curriculum coherence and the secure development of foundational knowledge identified within our SEF.

Our history curriculum encourages pupils to think and work as historians. Children explore historical sources, ask questions, interpret evidence and consider different viewpoints. Teachers support pupils in developing disciplinary vocabulary and historical enquiry skills so they can communicate their ideas clearly and thoughtfully.

We are committed to ensuring our curriculum reflects both the diversity of modern Britain and the wider world. Pupils study a broad range of significant individuals, communities and civilisations, helping them develop empathy, cultural understanding and appreciation for the experiences of others. Texts, themes and learning opportunities are chosen carefully so pupils both see themselves reflected within the curriculum and develop awareness beyond their own lived experiences.

Teachers adapt learning carefully to ensure all pupils can succeed in history. Through the use of scaffolds, visuals, discussion and targeted support, pupils with SEND and EAL are enabled to access historical learning successfully alongside their peers.

Lessons promote discussion, reflection and critical thinking. Pupils are encouraged to consider fairness, leadership, conflict and change over time, linking historical themes to our school values and the world around them today. This helps pupils become reflective learners who can listen respectfully, challenge ideas thoughtfully and understand the importance of different perspectives.

Assessment and retrieval practice are used regularly to strengthen retention and identify misconceptions. Leaders monitor the implementation of history through pupil voice, book scrutiny and lesson visits to ensure pupils are building secure knowledge over time.

Through our history curriculum, we aim to develop knowledgeable, curious and reflective pupils who understand the impact of the past, value diversity and approach the future with confidence and hope.

Galatians 3, V28 – ‘For we are all one in Christ Jesus’