Whole School Overview
Curriculum Story 2022-2023
History Progression Map
At St. Mary’s Hampton the History curriculum is designed to ensure a structured development of historical knowledge and skills from Reception through Year 6. It aligns with the National Curriculum and aims to build a good foundation for understanding historical concepts, context, and enquiry methods.
Summary of the curriculum’s key elements:
Developing Chronological Understanding
The curriculum helps pupils gradually understand chronology, starting from personal histories in Reception to more complex time periods like the Romans and Victorians in Key Stage 2. By reinforcing chronological terms and concepts across all years, children learn to place events in the correct historical context, creating a clear historical narrative.
Building Historical Knowledge
Pupils learn about significant periods, events, and figures in a systematic way that builds on existing knowledge. This approach ensures pupils leave primary school with a comprehensive understanding of significant events and individuals.
Reception and Year 1: Focus on personal history and events within living memory.
Years 3-6: Explore British, European, and global history, such as the Stone Age, Romans, Ancient Greece, and societies like the Mayans.
Developing Historical Enquiry Skills
The curriculum focuses on helping pupils ask valid questions, evaluate sources, and interpret evidence. Skills start with basic source handling in Key Stage 1 and expand in Key Stage 2 using more complex sources. This development allows children to confidently form historical arguments.
Promoting Cultural Awareness and Diversity
The curriculum includes units on non-European societies like Ancient Egypt and the Mayans, fostering an appreciation for global history and diversity. This broader perspective helps children understand the interconnectedness of the world.
Incorporating Cross-Curricular Links
History supports cross-curricular learning, especially in English and geography. Activities like storytelling, source analysis, and report writing enhance reading, writing, and analytical skills, contributing to broader educational goals.
The History Curriculum at St. Mary’s Hampton provides a structured approach to teaching history. It ensures children gain a deep understanding of key events, periods, and figures while equipping them with the skills needed to critically engage with the past. The curriculum aims to inspire curiosity and foster a lifelong interest in history.