History

Intent 

The Humanities faculty aims to build global citizens by developing pupils’ wider awareness of local, national, and global issues both past and present. We build our curriculum around Catholic Social Teaching and the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and tolerance to enable students to appreciate the world around them, whilst working closely with other departments to form cross-curricular links. 

The History curriculum fully meets the National Curriculum Programme of Study and the OCR SHP GCSE History B specification. It is delivered in discrete units, which develop a knowledge of British, local and world history in Chronological order. The curriculum is knowledge rich, with an emphasis on key historical skills. There are opportunities for students to develop their reading skills in history by utilising a variety of historical sources. Research skills are developed and utilised throughout the course during homework and projects. 

The history curriculum focuses on acquiring knowledge within six themes, which are revisited throughout the schemes of work: 

  • Chronological understanding. 
  • Cultural, ethnic and religious diversity. 
  • Change and Continuity. 
  • Cause and Consequence. 
  • Significance. 
  • Interpretation. 

Our curriculum develops the whole child, with a focus on their character and personal development as well as their academic achievements. History incorporates both the Catholic Social Principles and British Values, developing the need for understanding; to respect diversity, culture and the world around us; and to respect each other whilst nurturing responsible global citizens of the future. 

Implementation 

The scheme of learning at key stage 3 provides a clear chronological framework of Britain’s history from Roman times to the mid-20th century that is broad and balanced. Britain’s connections with the wider world are explored, and cross-curricular themes make students aware of local, national and global connections.  

See the history CPGs for a more detailed breakdown of the history curriculum for each year group. 

Impact 

  • Providing pupils with cultural capital and an interest in the humanities subjects beyond their time at secondary school. The study of History should cultivate an enthusiasm about pupils’ local, national and global history and their place within it. This is achieved by adopting a wide variety of teaching methods and assessments including participation in trips and fieldwork activities. 
  • Enabling students to acquire desirable skills to take into further education and the workplace. 
  • Providing a foundation for all students to reach their potential as global Catholic citizens. 
  • The chronological sequencing of the curriculum allows for the consolidation of key historical skills, for students to become analytical thinkers, and to be engaged and active in their learning.