Why is history important for all learners at Stoke Lodge? Why does it matter?
Young people studying history at Stoke Lodge will gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of significant individuals and changes in their own lifetime, in Britain’s past and in the history of the wider world.
Our curriculum will encourage curiosity about the past and help learners to sequence key events, ask perceptive questions, identify, analyse and compare sources and think critically. Ultimately, they will build an understanding of change and continuity over time and a chronological understanding of key dates, events and figures using historical terms accurately. Our curriculum develops these qualities in young people through examining change and continuity from the Stone Age to the Iron Age, the British Roman period and the subsequent invasion of Britain by Saxons, Vikings and Scots, up to the time of Edward the Confessor. In upper Key Stage 2, learners explore Greek life and achievements and their influence on the western world, and complete two studies of non-European ancient civilisations and an extended chronological study. As well as examining aspects of the history of Britain, Europe and the wider world, the learners have many opportunities to explore history, change and continuity in their local area.
In year one and two, we learned about important people like Samuel Pepys and Brunel. We also studied the Great Fire of London and how homes and cities have changed.
We studied Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, learning about invasions, settlements and how kingdoms were formed. In year 6 we study the Windrush Generation and how migration shaped modern Britain. We can explain where each period fits on a timeline and how one era leads to another.
As part of our Stoke Lodge Ethic of Excellence, we are members of the Historical Association to support us in providing high quality models and examples. We also use this to ensure our teachers are skilled to provide excellent teaching for our children.
Our Key Learning Intentions
Our history curriculum helps young people to understand their place in the world and the history all around them. They learn to recognise the significance of people, places and changes in their locality and beyond and form opinions about them. Crucially, they are encouraged and supported to develop their sense of pride and identity with their local area, Bristol, Britain, Europe and the wider world. It can inspire them to think about their own values, rights and responsibilities, and the potential for their own historical significance.
