At St Anthony’s, we believe history is fundamental in helping pupils understand how the past shapes the present and influences the future. History enables pupils to explore the richness of human experience, recognising where societies have upheld or neglected principles such as Human Dignity, The Common Good, and Rights and Responsibilities. Through studying diverse cultures and communities, pupils develop empathy and the principle of Solidarity, appreciating the importance of standing alongside others in the pursuit of justice and peace. History nurtures not only knowledge but also wisdom, resilience, and compassion, empowering pupils to contribute to society with integrity and courage, inspired by Gospel values.

Intent

Our history curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ deep understanding of the past and its impact on today’s world. Using the ARK+ curriculum, we deliver a carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich journey that builds strong chronological awareness and key historical skills, fully aligned with the National Curriculum.

Our curriculum is underpinned by our school’s core principles:

• Nurturing virtuous individuals who reflect on the past and apply learning to become responsible members of society.
• Inspiring high achievement and fostering a love for history that encourages critical thinking, questioning of evidence, and engagement with big ideas.
• Promoting collaborative learning through discussion, debate, and recognition of multiple perspectives.

Key Stage 1: Pupils explore familiar objects and places within living memory, progressing to more distant past topics such as toys, transport, the Great Fire of London, kings and queens, and significant individuals.

Key Stage 2: Pupils follow two main strands:

• A chronological study of Britain’s history from the Stone Age to the Battle of Hastings, including modern history in Year 6 through Conflict and Resolution (WWI and WWII).
• A study of world civilisations linked to geography, covering Ancient Egypt, the Maya, Baghdad in its Golden Age, and Ancient Greece.

Implementation

• The ARK+ curriculum ensures clear progression through a sequenced, knowledge-rich approach.
• Lessons balance historical knowledge with enquiry-based skills, encouraging pupils to ask perceptive questions, analyse evidence, and evaluate interpretations.
• Learning is enriched through storytelling, use of artefacts, timelines, visits, and handling primary and secondary sources.
• Cross-curricular links with Geography and RE deepen pupils’ contextual understanding.
• Debate and discussion are embedded to build pupils’ confidence in articulating ideas and respecting differing viewpoints.

Impact

By the end of their primary education, pupils at St Anthony’s will:

• Have secure chronological knowledge of British and world history, understanding cause, consequence, change, and continuity.
• Think critically about evidence and interpretations, constructing reasoned arguments.
• Understand how past events have shaped societies and influenced the present.
• Demonstrate curiosity, resilience, and respect in discussing complex historical issues.
• Leave with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage critically with the past and the character to contribute to society with faith, courage, and integrity.

Assessment

Assessment is integral to every stage of learning in history:

• Each lesson begins with a short quiz to revisit and consolidate prior knowledge.
• Pupils regularly reflect on the enquiry question to assess their progress and make connections across time periods.
• At the end of each unit, pupils present their findings related to the central enquiry question, enabling teachers to assess knowledge, use of historical vocabulary, and ability to interpret and explain historical events.
• This consistent approach ensures assessment informs teaching and secures strong learning outcomes.