At Selling CE Primary School, History is not simply a study of dates and events—it is a living narrative that reveals how God’s providence has shaped human experience throughout the ages. Our History curriculum, built on the enquiry-based and dynamic approach of the Kapow scheme, encourages pupils to explore the rich tapestry of our local, national, and global heritage.
Grounded in our Christian values, our programme invites students to reflect on how the past informs our present and guides our future. By investigating historical events, significant figures, and cultural shifts, pupils develop critical thinking skills and learn to interpret evidence with wisdom and discernment. This journey through time is viewed through a lens of redemption, hope, and service—reminding us that every moment in history offers a lesson on the value of compassion and forgiveness.
As our students engage in historical enquiry, they not only build a chronological understanding of events but also cultivate empathy by examining diverse human experiences which link to our value of Umunthu. This balanced perspective empowers them to learn from past triumphs and failures, drawing inspiration to contribute positively to the world around them. By connecting the lessons of history with the enduring message of Christ’s love and transformation, we nurture thoughtful, resilient individuals committed to shaping a better future.
Our Intent
Through a carefully structured programme, our intent is to:
Our Implementation
Our History curriculum is delivered through an engaging, enquiry-based approach that aligns with both national curriculum objectives and our Christian vision. Key aspects of our implementation include:
Structured Learning Units:
Lessons are organised into six-lesson units that explore substantive themes such as power, trade, migration, and cultural achievements. Each unit is designed to build upon previous knowledge, forming a spiral curriculum where key concepts are revisited and deepened over time.
Enquiry-Based Learning:
Pupils are encouraged to work through the historical enquiry cycle—question, investigate, interpret, evaluate, and communicate—to develop their own investigations. This approach promotes independent thinking and helps them understand how historians construct narratives from evidence.
Diverse Teaching Strategies:
Lessons incorporate a blend of teacher-led discussions, group work, and individual tasks. Hands-on activities using primary sources, artefacts, and digital resources enrich learning and make historical events tangible. Cross-curricular links help pupils see the relevance of history in a broader context, including its connections to literature, art, and religious studies.
Inclusive and Adaptive Practices:
Teachers receive robust guidance and ongoing professional development to adapt lessons for different learning needs, ensuring that all pupils can access and engage with the content. Our approach emphasises the development of a ‘mental timeline’ that supports a deep understanding of historical chronology.
Integration of Christian Values:
Throughout the curriculum, lessons are imbued with opportunities to reflect on how historical events resonate with our Christian calling. Pupils are encouraged to consider the moral implications of past actions and to develop a compassionate, just perspective on the world.
Our Impact
The impact of our History curriculum is continually assessed to ensure that it not only meets academic standards but also nurtures well-rounded, thoughtful individuals. We expect that, through their historical studies, pupils will:
Develop Critical and Informed Thinkers:
Pupils will acquire a rich knowledge of historical events and concepts, and be able to form reasoned historical arguments based on cause and effect, continuity and change, and the evaluation of sources.
Cultivate Empathy and Global Awareness:
By exploring diverse narratives and the complexities of human experiences, pupils learn to appreciate cultural differences and understand the enduring relevance of values such as justice, compassion, and stewardship.
Demonstrate Progress Through Ongoing Assessment:
Our assessment models—comprising both formative methods (such as skill catchers and knowledge quizzes) and summative evaluations—enable teachers to track progress, identify gaps, and celebrate achievements. This structured tracking ensures that every pupil’s historical understanding grows steadily, preparing them for future learning and responsible citizenship.
In summary, by combining a robust, enquiry-based History curriculum with the guiding light of our Christian ethos, Selling CE Primary School empowers pupils to learn from the past, understand their present, and shape a hopeful future.