History

Intent

At Highfield, we want children to enjoy learning about the past and understand how it shapes the world today. Our curriculum builds curiosity, confidence to ask questions and the ability to think carefully about people, events and changes over time. Children learn about diverse stories, important individuals and significant periods so they can see themselves reflected in history and understand their place in the world.

Implementation

• Lessons are enquiry‑based, encouraging children to investigate, question and make discoveries.
• We use pictures, artefacts, stories, videos and timelines to bring history to life.
• Clear progression:
  • Infants: Personal history, families and simple “then and now” concepts
  • Juniors: Chronological study of key periods to build a connected understanding of the past
• Key vocabulary such as chronology, evidence, artefact, invasion, settlement, empire, change and significance is taught and revisited.
• Enrichment includes trips, workshops, handling real artefacts and exploring local history.
• Adaptations include visuals, prompts, simplified sources and additional adult support.

Impact

By the time children leave Highfield, they will:

• Understand key historical periods and how they connect
• Explain how and why events happened
• Use historical vocabulary confidently
• Ask thoughtful questions and think critically about evidence
• Understand how the past influences the present

Teachers assess learning through discussion, short tasks, quizzes and reviewing children’s work. Children’s achievements are celebrated through displays, class books and whole‑school projects.