History at Ashbourne Primary School

Our History curriculum develops curiosity, critical thinking and an appreciation of the complexities of people’s lives in the past.

At Ashbourne Primary, children develop an understanding of how the past has shaped the world we live in today. Pupils are taught the importance of historical evidence and how it informs our understanding of events. They learn to ask and answer questions about the causes and consequences of change, developing their ability to think critically about the past.

Over time, pupils build a secure sense of chronology and gain an understanding of the diversity of past societies. History is brought to life through visiting actors, experience days and educational visits, helping pupils to engage with learning in meaningful and memorable ways.

Curriculum Progression

Our history curriculum is carefully planned and sequenced over a two-year cycle:

• Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) – pupils develop foundational knowledge of historical concepts and begin to understand chronology
• Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4) – pupils deepen their understanding and begin to explore change, cause and impact
• Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5 and 6) – pupils build on prior learning to analyse events, compare periods of time and evaluate historical evidence

We recognise that learning takes time and repetition. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that key knowledge and processes are embedded in pupils’ long-term memory, enabling them to apply their understanding across a range of topics and contexts.

Linked to Our Golden Threads

Our history curriculum supports our Golden Threads:

• Language and Literacy – pupils develop historical vocabulary and explain their understanding clearly
• Resilience and Regulation – pupils learn to question, investigate and reflect on different interpretations of the past
• Belonging and Becoming – pupils develop an understanding of identity, diversity and how societies have changed over time

Through our history curriculum, pupils:

• Develop a secure understanding of key historical knowledge and concepts
• Build a strong sense of chronology
• Understand how and why change has occurred over time
• Develop critical thinking through the use of evidence
• Engage with history and show curiosity about the past