The History Curriculum

We want our history curriculum to help pupils develop a sense of belonging and a deeper understanding of society and their place within it. We aim to nurture curiosity, passion, and strong questioning and research skills, alongside the ability to apply knowledge and understanding to both past and present events. 

 

Statement of Intent 

We aim to: 

  • Develop creative, curious, and questioning historians 

  • Build an understanding of the significance of local history and heritage 

  • Provide opportunities for pupils to use historical skills to explore why our local area, county, country, and world are the way they are today 

  • Encourage an understanding of other cultures and their historical relevance to our own 

 

Our Curriculum 

Our history curriculum is carefully planned and tailored to ensure that knowledge and skills are progressively developed throughout each pupil’s primary education, whilst maintaining the vital thread of our local history and heritage.

 Local History and Heritage 

Through local studies, pupils learn about significant events, people, and places that have shaped West Yorkshire. This includes the Iron Age settlement at Castle Hill, the Roman fort at Slack, the weavers’ cottages of the South Pennines, and the mills of Cleckheaton and Huddersfield. We consider the lives of the people who have lived and worked here and the legacy of innovation and protest that informed their lives. 

The History of These Islands 

Our local heritage provides a foundation for learning about the wider history of the British Isles, from the earliest times to the present day. Pupils consider the importance of invasion and settlement on shaping our country as well as the significance of individuals such as Florence Nightingale, Mary Seacole, Boudicca and Titus Salt, and events such as the Great Fire of London and the Industrial Revolution. 

Ancient Civilisations 

In KS2 pupils learn about the ancient civilisations of Egypt, Greece, and the Maya, exploring their social, political and religious practices and are encouraged to cast an analytical eye over the archaeologists and museums that provided the source material for our studies

How We Teach History at Gomersal Primary School 

History is a hands-on subject and, throughout their time at Gomersal, pupils are given opportunities to work with a range of primary and secondary sources, including artefacts, images, and maps.  

Learning is enriched through exploration of the local area, visits to Oakwell Hall and local museums, theatre experiences, and visits from historical experts. History is also linked with other subjects, such as Geography and Art, to provide a broad and engaging curriculum. 

Pupils acquire the skills needed to understand and analyse the information they are presented with including 

  • Chronological understanding 

  • Historical enquiry 

  • The use and interpretation of evidence 

They are encouraged to record their learning in a range of ways including recount, drama, debate and art.