History
Our History subject leader is Mrs Weir.
“We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Intent
At Upperby Primary School, we aim to bring History to life by immersing pupils in experiences both in school and through educational visits. We equip pupils with a clear understanding of when events occurred and aim to ignite their curiosity about the past. Alongside historical knowledge, we emphasise the development of enquiry skills to deepen understanding.
Our History curriculum encourages pupils to ask meaningful questions about the past, analyse evidence, think critically, appreciate different perspectives, and make informed judgements—skills that are transferable across other subjects. Pupils learn how Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world, and they have opportunities to explore their own identity through local history topics. Ultimately, we aim for pupils to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies, and the relationships between different groups.
Implementation
We use Connected History as the foundation of our teaching. Lessons are delivered in meaningful contexts with clear intended outcomes, and cross-curricular links are made where possible. Teachers explicitly highlight that pupils are learning History skills and encourage them to think like historians.
-
Key Stage 1: Pupils study famous people from the past, changes within living memory, and events beyond living memory that are significant nationally or globally.
-
Key Stage 2: Pupils develop chronologically secure knowledge and understanding of British, local, and world history, establishing clear narratives across the periods they study. They identify connections, contrasts, and trends over time, and use historical terms and vocabulary accurately. Pupils understand that knowledge of the past is constructed from a range of sources. Lessons are designed to inspire, engage, and challenge pupils through classroom and out-of-school experiences. Pupils develop enquiry skills while learning about chronology, evidence interpretation, change over time, and cause and consequence.
Impact
The pupils are assessed against the performance descriptors for each year group which have been carefully mapped out. Skills and understanding in History are progressive and build year-on-year. Assessment information is used to inform further curriculum developments and provision is adapted accordingly. The subject leader monitors assessments and provides support for staff to ensure continued progress.
Useful Websites
School display for Remembrance Day
