History at Delabole School

At Delabole School, we believe that understanding the past helps children make sense of the present and prepare for the future. Through our enquiry-based curriculum, pupils develop a secure knowledge of significant people, events and civilisations that have shaped Britain and the wider world.

Our history curriculum is carefully sequenced so that children build their knowledge over time, developing a clear understanding of chronology and how different periods and events connect. From the earliest settlements in Britain to more recent historical events, pupils explore change, continuity and the impact of human actions across time.

Through discussion, investigation and the analysis of historical evidence, children learn to think critically, ask thoughtful questions and consider different interpretations of the past. They develop an appreciation of the experiences, achievements and challenges faced by people throughout history, and the ways these continue to influence our lives today.

The development of ambitious historical vocabulary is an important aspect of learning. New language and concepts are explicitly taught, revisited regularly and supported through a range of inclusive teaching strategies to ensure all pupils can access and succeed within the curriculum.

Above all, History at Delabole inspires curiosity about the past, helping children develop the knowledge, understanding and perspective needed to become informed and reflective citizens.

Aims

Through our History curriculum, we aim for all pupils to:

• Develop a secure understanding of Britain's past and the key events, people and developments that have shaped society today.
• Gain knowledge of significant world civilisations, societies and historical periods beyond Britain.
• Understand how historical events and human actions have influenced communities, cultures and nations over time.
• Apply key historical concepts, including chronology, continuity and change, cause and consequence, similarity, difference and significance.
• Investigate the past through enquiry, questioning sources and evaluating evidence to reach informed conclusions.
• Develop and use subject-specific historical vocabulary with increasing confidence and accuracy.
• Make meaningful connections between local, national and international history.
• Appreciate diverse perspectives and experiences from the past, developing empathy, respect and understanding of others.
• Recognise how learning about the past helps us to understand the present and make informed choices for the future.