To ensure high standards of teaching and learning in history, we implement a curriculum that is progressive throughout the whole school. History is taught as part of a termly topic - taught in alternate half-terms, focusing on knowledge and skills stated in the National Curriculum. At High Wycombe Church of England School, we ensure that history has the same importance given to it as the core subjects, as we feel this is important in enabling all children to gain ‘real-life’ experiences.
The History curriculum at High Wycombe Church of England School is based upon the 2014 Primary National Curriculum in England, which provides a broad framework and outlines the knowledge and skills and taught in each Key Stage.
When teaching history the teachers should follow the children’s interests to ensure their learning is engaging, broad and balanced. History teaching focuses on enabling children to think critically using historical skills. A variety of teaching approaches are used based on the teacher’s judgement.
History provides excellent opportunities to enhance the learning of more able pupils through the investigations, analysing sources and writing extending pieces.
Educational visits are another opportunity for the teachers to plan for additional history learning outside the classroom. At High Wycombe Church of England School the children have had many opportunities to experience history on educational visits. The children have explored local museums and visitors have been welcomed into school to share history learning and provide hands on experiences.