History
‘Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.’
George Santayana
At Biddick Primary School, our curriculum is aimed to spark students’ interest and enthusiasm for history which stimulates their curiosity about the past. We have a cross-curricular approach to learning; children are fully immersed in a theme-based curriculum which reflects our children’s interests and questioning, while they are continually challenged to develop a depth of historical enquiry. Our curriculum is structured in a way that encourages pupils to make links and draw comparisons between historical periods previously studied. Learning builds on pupils understanding of the importance of British values and continuously develops their spiritual, social, moral and cultural understanding. We ensure that history has the same importance as core subjects and our love of reading is embedded throughout our curriculum.
Our history journey starts in Early Years where children develop valuable speaking and listening skills by talking about the past, often through the use of story books. This forms the building blocks for KS1 and KS2 where our curriculum continues to be language rich. Children develop their oracy skills and the ability to communicate ideas confidently in a range of ways. They reflect, debate, discuss and evaluate the past, formulating and refining questions and lines of enquiry.
Our children develop a sense of chronology and an understanding of change and continuity here in the North-East of England, Britain and in other parts of the world. They acquire the skills and knowledge needed to think critically, be resilient and become a successful historian through meaningful and memorable activities. Learning is further enhanced through the use of artefacts, visitors and trips to places of historical interest and museums.
Our inclusive and enriching curriculum, written for all children, provides pupils with meaningful and aspirational experiences as well as promoting personal growth for life-long learning. When the curriculum needs adapting, to suit the needs of individual children, appropriate modifications are made by the class teacher with support of the SENDCo and the Curriculum Subject Lead.