History

History at St Andrew’s Infant school gives children an understanding and appreciation of events and the contributions of key figures from the past, both beyond living memory and in their lifetimes. History enables children to ask questions, make comparisons and understand the process of change.

In the EYFS, history is woven through the topics covered and follows a child-led approach. The topics link to the objectives set out in the ELG’s and these ensure the children are developing an awareness of history through a variety of activities. The children are given lots of opportunities to talk about their own lives including bringing in and talking about photographs of their families. Children in the EYFS will develop an awareness of the terms ‘past’ and ‘present’ by comparing photographs and artefacts such as transport and homes, as well as through story time and songs.
In KS1, we follow the 2014 National Curriculum as well as using the Cornerstones curriculum to structure our topics throughout the year. The history lessons are then linked to these topics to give a wider context to the children’s learning. We also use the Rainbow Continuum to ensure that children are gaining the key skills, as well as the knowledge to develop in confidence. Our intention is for the children’s history knowledge to broaden as they move from EYFS through to Year Two. Beginning in the EYFS with the discussion around the children’s own lives and events in their living memory, and developing into studying key historical events and figures and their impact on people’s lives, in Year 2. By Year 2 our children should have a solid understanding of past and present and the changes that have occurred over time.

We understand the importance of engaging history lessons, so we ensure that the children experience real-life history, through school trips and virtual visitors. We also tailor our curriculum to suit our circumstances as a school and ensure that our children have an awareness of local history, including the changes that Brighouse has seen and the study of local significant figures.

Our school is well resourced and all classes have access to good quality books and appropriate artefacts where required. Our library is also stocked with appropriate fiction and non-fiction books and teachers ensure these books are available to the children in class and are read daily.