Intent

At St. John’s, our History curriculum is designed to ignite a fascination with the past and inspire pupils to explore the events, people, and changes that have shaped our world. Rooted in our school’s values, it equips pupils with the knowledge and skills to think critically, evaluate evidence, and understand the significance of history in shaping the present and future. We aim to develop pupils’ curiosity, empathy, and respect for diverse perspectives, helping them to appreciate the complexity of human experience.

Through a broad and engaging curriculum, we will:

• Build Chronological Understanding: Develop pupils’ understanding of chronology, enabling them to place events and people in historical contexts and see the connections between different periods.
• Foster Enquiry and Critical Thinking: Encourage pupils to ask perceptive questions, analyse evidence, and consider different interpretations of the past, cultivating their ability to think like historians.
• Explore Local, National, and Global History: Provide pupils with a rich understanding of history at multiple scales, from the history of our local area to significant national and global events.
• Celebrate Diversity and Cultural Heritage: Help pupils recognise the contributions of different cultures, civilisations, and individuals to human progress, fostering respect and appreciation for diversity.
• Connect the Past to the Present: Enable pupils to draw connections between historical events and contemporary issues, empowering them to understand their place in the world and their role in shaping the future.
   

At St. John’s, we aim to nurture thoughtful, informed, and inquisitive learners who value the lessons of history and are well-prepared to engage with the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. Our History curriculum fosters a sense of curiosity, responsibility, and respect for the rich tapestry of human experience.

EYFS Curriculum

Primary Curriculum

Impact

The impact of the History curriculum at St. John’s will be reflected in the knowledge, skills, and perspectives pupils develop as they explore the richness of the past. By the time pupils leave St. John’s, they will have a deep understanding of history’s influence on the world, critical thinking skills to interpret evidence, and an appreciation of diversity and cultural heritage.
 

Impact on Pupils

• Knowledgeable and Informed: Pupils will leave with a strong understanding of key historical events, figures, and periods, and an ability to place them within a clear chronological framework.
• Skilled Historians: Pupils will confidently use historical enquiry skills, such as evaluating sources, interpreting evidence, and considering multiple perspectives, to understand and question the past.
• Curious and Reflective Learners: Pupils will demonstrate a sustained interest in exploring history, asking insightful questions about the past and its relevance to the present and future.
• Empathy and Respect for Diversity: Pupils will recognise the contributions of diverse cultures, individuals, and civilisations, fostering a sense of respect and appreciation for different perspectives and experiences.
• Connection to the Modern World: Pupils will understand how history influences contemporary society and their own lives, enabling them to draw meaningful connections and think critically about current events.
   

Impact on the School Community

• Culture of Enquiry: A dynamic and inclusive History curriculum will nurture curiosity and critical thinking across the school, encouraging pupils to engage thoughtfully with the past and its lessons.
• Preparation for the Future: Pupils will leave St. John’s equipped with transferable skills, such as analysis, interpretation, and communication, which will support them in secondary education and beyond.
• Reinforcement of School Values: By embedding the values of St. John’s, pupils will develop a sense of responsibility and respect for the contributions and sacrifices of those who came before them.
   

Impact on Wider Society

• Thoughtful Global Citizens: Pupils from St. John’s will have the knowledge and empathy to engage with diverse perspectives and contribute thoughtfully to society.
• Inspiration for the Future: By understanding the challenges and achievements of the past, pupils will be inspired to make positive contributions to their communities and the wider world.
   

Through our History curriculum at St. John’s, we will nurture pupils who are informed, reflective, and curious, equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage confidently with the world around them and shape a better future.