History
Our school ethos, vision and values recognise that each child is unique. Providing them with a curriculum that is inspirational, creative and caring whilst also providing challenge for all, prepares our children for their future. Our curriculum not only aims to provide children with the skills that they need now, but also the ability to be flexible, resourceful, reflective and resilient; helping them to adapt and problem solve as they grow up in an ever-changing world. At Norwood, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to be extraordinary and future ready through a curriculum which is creative, bold and courageous. This is achieved through an irresistible, EPIC approach. EPIC means: (E – Exciting & Engaging learning experiences; P – Pace/Progress; I – Involvement; C – Challenge)
Our vision for History at Norwood:
At Norwood we want all pupils to have an understanding of the past, how it influences the present and how it may shape their future. We ensure these through:
- teaching engaging, high-quality history lessons that encourage critical thinking;
- encouraging children to ask why;
- giving children the ability to weigh up evidence, draw their own conclusions and present their own arguments (disciplinary knowledge);
- developing chronological understanding and making links
- developing substantive knowledge (e.g. legacy, invasion, diversity, journeys, monarchy, empire…)- the Golden Threads
How History is taught at Norwood
Norwood’s teaching of History is underpinned by these Golden threads: legacy, invasion, diversity, journeys, monarchy, empire…
In Early years, History is taught through developing pupil's understanding of the world around them. This includes talking about the lives of people and their roles in society; knowing the difference between things that have happened in the past and now; using their own experiences and understanding the past through books read in class and story telling.
In Key Stage 1, the children study events that have caused significant change, for instance, The Great Fire of London, or events commemorated through festivals or anniversaries. Children also look at historical events, people and places in their own locality, as well as having a renewed focus on chronology.
In Key Stage 2, the historical learning journey continues, with topics building upon prior knowledge. Children start off in Lower Key Stage 2 by learning about Early British History, from the Stone Age and the Iron Age, through to the dark ages and 1066. In Upper Key Stage 2, children look at how early civilizations developed over time and their influence on Modern History. There will also be opportunities for children to explore significant moments during history, for example, the Windrush Generation.
Historical learning is also enhanced through trips to local museums such as the Sea City Museum (Year 1) and Tudor House (Year 6) as well as further afield with Year 5 visiting the Ashmolean Museum. In addition, children are given the opportunity to visit other historical sites such as Stonehenge (Year 3) and Osborne House (Year 2). Children are also immersed into historical topics through topic launches and immersive days.
Key Documents
