Intent
At Larwood School, our history curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, giving every child the knowledge and cultural understanding they need for life and future learning.
Our topics follow the National Curriculum (2014) and are broad, balanced, and carefully adapted to help children develop historical knowledge, skills, and concepts.
We aim to inspire a lasting interest in history and equip children to understand and engage with the changing world around them. Each year’s learning builds on previous knowledge, linking topics to deepen understanding of the past and how people interpret it.
Implementation
To ensure high standards in history teaching and learning, we deliver a progressive curriculum that revisits prior knowledge and introduces new concepts systematically. All teaching focuses on the knowledge and skills outlined in the National Curriculum.
Lessons are differentiated to make history accessible and challenging for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and those who are gifted and talented. Activities include investigations, source analysis, and extended writing for higher ability pupils, while scaffolding and additional adult support are provided for those who need it.
Learning takes place both inside and outside the classroom. Each year group organises trips and visits linked to their topics to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Teachers also plan hands-on activities away from desks. Every topic begins with a ‘Stunning Start’ to engage pupils and ends with a ‘Fantastic Finish’ to showcase learning.
Impact
Our history curriculum is high quality, well-structured, and demonstrates clear progression. Impact is measured through:
Assessing pupils’ understanding of key vocabulary during mentoring sessions
Reviewing practical learning through images and videos
Moderating work in books during staff meetings
Marking written work and evaluating outcomes
Annual reporting of standards across the history curriculum
By the time pupils leave Larwood, they will have a strong understanding of elements of UK history and be able to compare this with other civilisations such as Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece. This provides a solid foundation for secondary learning and a deeper awareness of the world and its past.
