Grange Primary School
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History
Our History Vision
At Grange Primary School, we believe that history helps children understand the world they live in and their place within it. Our history curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity about the past, develop a sense of identity and belonging, and encourage pupils to become informed, responsible citizens of the future.
Through the study of local, British and world history, children develop a secure understanding of how societies, cultures and civilisations have changed over time. We want our pupils to appreciate the diversity of human experiences, recognise the achievements and contributions of different people and communities, and understand the complexity of historical events and their impact on the modern world.
At the heart of our curriculum is the development of both substantive and disciplinary historical knowledge. Children build a rich understanding of key historical periods, events and concepts, while also learning how historians investigate the past through the use of sources, evidence and enquiry. They develop the skills to question, interpret, analyse and draw conclusions about historical events and perspectives.
Our curriculum makes full use of our local area, enabling children to explore the rich history of their community and make meaningful connections between their own experiences and the wider historical narrative. Learning is carefully sequenced so that pupils build upon prior knowledge and develop an increasingly secure chronological understanding from the Early Years through to Year 6.
Through engaging lessons, educational visits, visitors and enquiry-based learning, pupils are encouraged to think critically, ask thoughtful questions and communicate their understanding using accurate historical vocabulary. We aim for all children to leave Grange Primary School with a deep appreciation of the past, a strong understanding of how history shapes the present, and the confidence to use their knowledge and skills to influence their future.
History in EYFS
In the Early Years, children begin to develop an understanding of the world around them through rich language experiences, stories, discussion and exploration. They learn about themselves, their families and communities, and begin to understand the concepts of past and present. Through play-based learning and carefully planned experiences, children develop the foundations of historical understanding and enquiry.
By the End of Key Stage 1
Pupils will develop an awareness of the past and understand where significant people and events fit within a simple chronological framework. They will identify similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods, use historical vocabulary appropriately, and begin to ask and answer questions about the past using a range of sources and evidence.
By the End of Key Stage 2
Pupils will develop a chronologically secure understanding of local, British and world history. They will make connections between different periods, identify change and continuity over time, and understand causes, consequences and significance. Children will evaluate historical evidence, consider different interpretations of the past and construct informed responses using historical vocabulary and knowledge. They will understand that our knowledge of the past is constructed from a range of sources and perspectives and be able to think critically about the reliability and usefulness of evidence.
Main pillars:
· Constructing the past
· Chronological understanding
· Historical enquiry
As History Leader at Grange Primary School, my vision is to inspire curiosity about the past and develop children’s understanding of how history has shaped the world they live in today. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils will build secure knowledge of local, British and world history whilst developing the skills of historical enquiry, critical thinking and interpretation. We aim for all children to become confident historians who can make connections across time, appreciate diverse perspectives, and use historical knowledge to become informed and responsible citizens.
If you have any questions or would like further information about History at Grange Primary School, please feel free to contact the History Leader, Mrs Light.
History Unit Map
Below you will find the unit map which outlines the different history units that are taught from Y1 - Y6.
What it means to be a Historian here at Grange Primary:
Cultural Capital
At Grange, we are proud of our rich local heritage and ensure that pupils develop a strong understanding of the history of Hartlepool and the surrounding area. Children learn about significant local figures such as Ralph Ward Jackson and explore how his vision helped shape the development of West Hartlepool. They also investigate key events in the town's history, enabling them to develop a sense of pride and connection to their local community.
We promote a language-rich history curriculum where subject-specific vocabulary is carefully planned and explicitly taught within each topic. This supports pupils in becoming confident historians who can discuss, question and explain their learning with increasing accuracy and depth.
History also provides meaningful links across the wider curriculum. Children are encouraged to make connections between subjects, enhancing their understanding of both historical concepts and the world around them. Through these experiences, we aim to inspire curiosity, foster a sense of identity and belonging, and equip our pupils with the knowledge and cultural understanding to thrive in the future.
SEND Statement
At Grange Primary School, we promote a curriculum that places all pupils, regardless of their needs or abilities, at the heart of everything we do. Through fostering mutual respect and celebrating individuality, we believe that every child is unique, valued and has something meaningful to contribute.
Our inclusive and enriching curriculum is designed for all children, providing meaningful, ambitious and aspirational learning experiences that support both academic achievement and personal growth. We are committed to ensuring that every pupil can access the curriculum and develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for lifelong learning.
Where necessary, the curriculum is carefully adapted to meet the needs of individual pupils. Appropriate support, scaffolding and modifications are planned and implemented by class teachers in collaboration with the SENDCo and Curriculum Subject Leaders, ensuring that all children are able to achieve success and reach their full potential.
Books we use to support our curriculum: