History
History Curriculum Statement
At Nicol Mere, we aim to deliver a rich and engaging history curriculum that develops our children’s understanding of both Britain’s past and the wider world. Through carefully planned lessons, we inspire curiosity about the past and equip pupils with the skills to explore how people’s lives have shaped the society we live in today. Our history curriculum helps children understand the process of change, appreciate the diversity of societies, and reflect on their own identity and heritage.
We want our children to appreciate the significance of Britain’s historical journey through a coherent, chronological narrative, from the earliest times to the present day. Pupils explore how Britain has shaped—and been shaped by—the world around it. As they progress, children develop key skills to become confident historians: asking thoughtful questions, analysing evidence, and recognising that history can be interpreted in different ways.
Intent
Our intent is to:
- Provide a broad, balanced, and progressive curriculum that engages and excites
- Offer a variety of sequenced knowledge and historical experiences
- Develop historical skills in: Chronology, Enquiry, Interpretation, Understanding cause and consequence, change, continuity, diversity, and significant events
- Promote school values and British Values through historical themes
- Provide memorable learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom
- Prepare children for the next steps in their learning journey
Implementation
Our approach to history focuses on helping children to think and work like historians. We use a variety of teaching strategies to bring history to life and make learning memorable. Children learn best when:
- They handle real artefacts and examine physical evidence
- They visit historically significant sites and museums
- They access a range of secondary sources including books, photographs, and videos
- They hear and interact with personal stories from the past, including visitors and family members
- They engage with historical narratives, stories, and reenactments
- They use research skills, both independently and collaboratively
- They make cross-curricular connections and explore themes across time periods
- They are encouraged to ask and answer meaningful historical questions
We support children of all abilities by:
- Setting open-ended tasks with multiple approaches
- Setting open-ended tasks with multiple approaches
- Differentiating by grouping and task complexity
- Using targeted resources and teaching assistants
- Encouraging peer support and intervention strategies to build memory and recall
To enrich the curriculum, we offer a wide range of experiences including museum trips, historical workshops, themed history days, and extra-curricular activities such as the Horrible Histories Club. We are also proud to host History Inter-School Challenges, encouraging collaboration and healthy competition.
Impact
The impact of our History curriculum is seen in the confidence, curiosity, and competence of our pupils. Children at Nicol Mere develop strong skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and historical enquiry, as well as a genuine interest in the past.
By revisiting key concepts and connecting historical periods, children deepen their understanding and build a strong foundation for future learning. Our pupils leave Nicol Mere as confident, reflective historians, equipped with the knowledge and skills to explore and appreciate the complex world around them.