History

'I love history because it’s like story time but real!' Year 2

 'I like the excitement of history. It’s cool because some of the people we learn about could be a distant ancestor.' Year 4

 'It sparks questions in my mind about the people who lived then, their lives and activities.' Year 4

'Learning about the past helps me understand who I am  today and inspires me to help make the future better.' Year 6

Pupil Voice

Intent

 At St Alban & St Stephen Catholic Primary School, our History curriculum reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child, equipping every pupil with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond. Through an inspiring journey into the past, children develop a deep understanding of historical events, people and societies, while exploring themes of change, diversity and identity, including their own place within our local community of St Albans, Britain and the wider world. We ignite curiosity and foster a passion for enquiry, encouraging pupils to think critically, ask perceptive questions, weigh evidence, evaluate interpretations and communicate their ideas with clarity and confidence. Enriched by meaningful first-hand experiences and rooted in British Values, tolerance and empathy, our carefully structured bespoke curriculum builds cultural capital and a strong sense of chronology, enabling children to think, act and speak like historians. By cultivating respect for evidence, creativity in interpretation and a secure foundation of historical knowledge and vocabulary, we are proud to build the historians of the future and prepare our pupils to become thoughtful, informed and responsible members of society.

Implementation

Our History curriculum is delivered through carefully sequenced lessons and topics that build and reinforce pupils’ historical skills and concepts, allowing them to deepen their understanding and retain what they learn. Each unit begins with a “big question,” guiding pupils to investigate and interpret the past, build an overview of world history, understand chronology, and communicate historically. Throughout each topic, children develop the skills and knowledge needed to form informed opinions and draw reasoned conclusions, transferring their learning across contexts and becoming confident, thoughtful historians.Our History curriculum is fully aligned with the National Curriculum and is designed to ensure all pupils develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding outlined within it.

History National Curriculum: Key Stages 1 & 2

Humanities Curriculum Overview

Impact

Pupils at St Alban & St Stephen Catholic Primary School leave with the knowledge and skills to think, act, and speak like historians, confidently applying these abilities in their learning, decision-making, and everyday life. They emerge curious, reflective, and capable of using evidence, analysis, and perspective to understand the world around them and engage meaningfully in their communities and future education.

Progression of Skills and Vocabulary

History Skills Progression

 Enrichment

Useful Links