In learning about history, pupils can be helped to make sense of the world that they live in. Pupils can begin to place themselves in the wider world and are introduced to the skills and concepts of investigating, understanding and interpreting.
At St Mary’s, pupils are taught a broad and balanced curriculum, in line with the expectations detailed in the National Curriculum. History is taught to KS1 and KS2 during the year, through three units of study. In KS1, opportunities will include storytelling, handling objects, oral history, imaginative play, themed days and visits to museums. In KS2, every effort is made to continue to make history real, by using a range of primary sources, including museums or historical sites, themed days, original documents, photographs and artefacts.
In the Early Years Foundation Stage, children explore the past through ‘Understanding the World’, often related to their own experiences.
How can parents help?
Living in London gives such wonderful opportunities to develop children’s interest in history. Top museums are The National History Museum, Imperial War Museum, London Transport Museum and the British Museum. Most museums are free and many offer fabulous workshops, also free, at weekends and during the school holidays.