History

Ofsted defines History as ‘vital to a rich and broad primary education. It helps pupils to make sense of the present as well as the past, and to appreciate the complexity and diversity of human societies and development.’

Intent

At Hunslet Moor Primary School, the History curriculum celebrates the rich history and diversity of the school and local community, with topics chosen to be relevant and inclusive of the many ethnic groups represented. History aims to inspire pupils’ curiosity about the past, helping them understand the complexity of people’s lives, societies, relationships, and their own identity. From Nursery and Reception, children begin exploring their own family history to build a foundation for deeper learning in KS1 and KS2. The curriculum provides opportunities to investigate and interpret the past, understand chronology, develop a broad overview of Britain and the wider world, and communicate historical understanding. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, weigh evidence, and develop perspective and judgement. Whole-school initiatives, such as Black History Month, support literacy while promoting knowledge of key individuals and events, fostering engagement and understanding across the curriculum.

Implementation

At Hunslet Moor Primary School, History drives topics within each year group, with other foundation subjects linked where possible, while Reception and Nursery cover all areas of the EYFS curriculum with at least one history-focused topic per year. Each topic begins with a recap of prior learning to help children understand how it fits into the broader timeline of World History. Topics are framed around a key question that pupils work to answer, culminating in a piece of work demonstrating their understanding. History is taught as a discrete subject for one hour per week in Years 1–6, with full-term and half-term topics planned to ensure coverage, including local and thematic studies such as the Industrial Revolution and Ancient Civilizations. Core knowledge and key vocabulary are prioritised to build long-term memory, support reading and writing, and enable future success in the subject. Enriching experiences, including visits and practical activities, are integrated throughout the year to broaden pupils’ curiosity and understanding of the world.

Impact

At Hunslet Moor Primary School, the History curriculum is progressive and helps children develop an understanding of time, closely linked with core subjects. Key texts in reading and writing lessons are selected to reinforce historical learning alongside literacy skills. Pupils study living memory in Year 1, life beyond living memory and local history in Years 2 and 3, and chronological History through Key Stage 2, introducing BCE in Year 4 in line with maths learning on negative numbers. The curriculum emphasises key skills such as questioning and investigating sources, which support learning at secondary school and beyond, alongside British Values to develop responsible citizenship. Assessment is ongoing through memory recall, knowledge organisers, and lesson observations, with summative assessment recorded on Sonar and pupils demonstrating learning through a final written piece. Leadership monitor teaching quality through book looks and pupil voice to ensure consistent progress and engagement across the school.