History

What we are aiming for

At Bassenthwaite, we want children to develop curiosity about the past and a secure understanding of local, British and world history. Pupils learn about key events, people and time periods and how these connect to the world today.

History encourages children to ask questions, explore evidence and form thoughtful ideas. We want pupils to understand that our knowledge of the past comes from different sources and that interpretations can vary. Children are supported to think critically, use evidence and explain their views clearly.

Vocabulary is an important part of history learning. Children build and use historical language to describe, explain and debate ideas with confidence.

How learning happens

Mixed-age classes
History is planned carefully across mixed-age classes to ensure full curriculum coverage and clear progression. Topics are taught on a rolling cycle so that key concepts are revisited and understanding deepens over time.

Enquiry-based learning
History is taught through enquiry questions. Each unit begins with a key question that guides learning and investigation. Children explore the past using:

  • primary and secondary sources
  • artefacts and images
  • visitors and visits
  • expert accounts and texts

Pupils learn to work like historians by using evidence, comparing accounts and considering different viewpoints.

Knowledge and historical thinking
Lessons build both historical knowledge and historical thinking skills. Children learn about cause and consequence, change and continuity, significance and interpretation. Timelines, knowledge maps and key vocabulary help children organise and connect their learning.

Learning is designed to connect new knowledge, stretch thinking and support children in applying what they know to new historical questions.

What children gain

Children gain a secure understanding of important historical periods, people and events, alongside the skills needed to investigate and interpret the past. They develop curiosity, questioning skills and confidence in discussing historical ideas.

They learn to use historical vocabulary, explain causes and effects, recognise change over time and compare different interpretations. Children understand that evidence matters and that conclusions should be supported by facts.

By the time they leave Bassenthwaite, pupils see history as meaningful and relevant, and are ready to continue their learning with interest and confidence.

How we know

We see progress in history through children’s ability to answer enquiry questions using evidence and correct vocabulary. Pupils can place events in time, explain key ideas and discuss different viewpoints.

Teachers check understanding through discussion, written work, quizzes and retrieval activities. Regular revisiting of prior learning helps knowledge become secure and connected, so all pupils continue to grow as thoughtful young historians.

How you can help at home

You can support your child’s history learning through simple conversations and experiences outside school.

Talk about the past

  • Share family stories and memories
  • Look at old photographs and discuss changes over time
  • Talk about when parents and grandparents were children

Explore places and objects

  • Visit museums, historic places or local landmarks
  • Notice plaques, memorials and old buildings
  • Talk about what objects were used for in the past

Encourage curiosity

  • Ask questions like Why do you think that happened?
  • Wonder together about how people lived before
  • Help your child look for evidence in pictures and objects

Read and watch together

  • Use history books, documentaries and child-friendly videos
  • Discuss what might be fact and what might be opinion

Build timeline thinking

  • Help children place events in order
  • Compare “then and now” in everyday life.

 

Helpful websites for families

Parents and carers may find the following websites useful for supporting history learning at home:

These resources are best used as a starting point for discussion. Talking together about what children notice, wonder about and question helps build curiosity, understanding and confidence.