History
At Langdale CE Primary School, history is more than just a subject—it is an essential way for children to understand their place in the world and how the past continues to shape the present. We teach history through a topic-based approach, where we provide children with a high-quality education that not only covers Britain’s history but also connects to the wider world. History at Langdale sparks curiosity, encouraging children to ask big questions and delve into the stories of historical figures, significant events, and the changes that have shaped our society over time.
Our history curriculum intends to develop children’s understanding of historical events in a clear, chronological narrative, while also allowing them to explore the deeper connections between events, people, and places. Pupils learn to compare and contrast different periods, understand cause and effect, and analyse how historical changes have influenced the world we live in today. Through cross-curricular learning, we connect history to other subjects and the world beyond the classroom to make history feel relevant and meaningful.
The history curriculum is implemented so that children are immersed in historical exploration both inside and outside the classroom. We place a strong emphasis on our exceptional Learning Beyond the Classroom approach, ensuring that pupils gain real-life experiences that bring history to life. For instance, our proximity to a Stone Age axe factory allows pupils to explore the physical remnants of ancient craftsmanship, providing a unique, tangible connection to life in the Stone Age. These visits offer hands-on learning opportunities, where children can examine artefacts and understand the significance of early human tool-making. Additionally, our local church plays a key role in enhancing our World War II learning. Every year, the church features a remembrance display that highlights the names and stories of local family members who contributed during the war. This poignant connection to our local history provides pupils with a meaningful, personal perspective on the events of World War II. This curriculum approach gives pupils a chance to reflect on how global events impact local lives, allowing them to draw parallels between the past and the present.
Through well-sequenced teaching and enriching experiences, the impact of our history curriculum is that pupils leave Langdale with a deep, well-rounded understanding of history. By the end of each Key Stage, children will not only be able to recall key historical facts and events but also understand their significance and how they continue to shape our world. Our history curriculum nurtures a sense of curiosity, critical thinking, and respect for the past, preparing pupils to become informed and thoughtful citizens.