History

Our History curriculum aims to equip students with a robust foundation of substantive knowledge about key historical events, periods, and figures, alongside the disciplinary skills essential for historical inquiry. Students will gain the ability to analyse and evaluate historical sources and interpretations, construct well-reasoned arguments, and understand the nuances of historical causation. We aspire for all learners to develop a comprehensive understanding of the past on local, national, and global levels, enabling them to make informed judgments and actively participate in contemporary society. Through engaging with diverse historical narratives, pupils will cultivate empathy, resilience in problem-solving, and a lifelong curiosity about the world around them.

The History curriculum is meticulously structured to build understanding over time, deeply rooted in evidence-based pedagogical approaches to knowledge retention. In the Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Key Stage 3, the curriculum echoes and extends beyond the National Curriculum, providing chronological coherence. Students delve into significant periods and themes, continuously revisiting and deepening their understanding of second-order concepts such as cause and consequence, change and continuity, and significance. They are exposed to essential historical skills, including source analysis, understanding historical interpretations, and developing evaluative and argumentative writing. At Key Stage 4, students expand their historical breadth and depth by studying a thematic overview of Medicine through Time (including a case study on World War One trenches), a British depth study on Early Elizabethan England, a modern depth study on Weimar and Nazi Germany, and a period study on the Cold War. Key Stage 5 challenges students to explore the past in greater breadth and depth, making intricate links and comparisons. Students undertake three areas of study: “In Search of the American Dream, USA, 1917-1997”; “The Road to Independence, India, 1914-1948”; and “Britain Losing and Gaining an Empire, 1793-1914,” culminating in a non-examined assessment, all while mastering key historical concepts.

We are committed to ensuring that our History curriculum is accessible and challenging for all pupils, including those with SEND or from disadvantaged backgrounds. We adapt our teaching strategies, utilising pre-teaching of complex concepts, providing scaffolded tasks, and explicitly addressing historical vocabulary to ensure every student can engage deeply with high-quality historical content. Our curriculum design fosters a supportive environment where all learners are encouraged to develop their historical inquiry skills and reach their full potential. We maintain high expectations for every student, promoting a culture of ambition and intellectual curiosity, ensuring that all pupils can succeed and thrive in History.

Our History curriculum significantly contributes to pupils’ cultural capital by exposing them to a rich tapestry of human experiences, diverse perspectives, and significant historical narratives from around the globe and within their local community. Explicitly planned opportunities allow students to learn about the history of Kent and the Isle of Sheppey, including topics like the Viking invasion and the island’s role in the Second World War. Enrichment opportunities are woven throughout the curriculum, providing immersive experiences that deepen appreciation for the past. This includes engaging with primary sources, exploring diverse historical interpretations, and fostering a lifelong interest in historical events and their impact on the modern world.