History

History

At St. Gilbert's RC Primary School, we believe that History helps children to understand the world they live in by learning about the people, events and societies that have shaped the past. We aim to develop curious, knowledgeable and reflective historians who are able to make meaningful connections between the past, present and future.

Our History curriculum follows the National Curriculum and is designed to ensure that children develop a secure understanding of chronology whilst gaining knowledge of local, British and world history. We encourage pupils to question, investigate and interpret the past, helping them to understand how historical events and people's actions continue to influence our lives today.

At St. Gilbert's, we teach History through engaging, enquiry-based learning that inspires curiosity and develops critical thinking. Children are encouraged to ask questions, examine evidence, consider different viewpoints and construct their own informed conclusions about the past. Through historical enquiry, problem-solving, investigation and interpretation, pupils learn to make sense of historical events and consider the lessons that can be learned from them.

To bring History to life, we enrich our curriculum through the use of visitors, artefacts, primary and secondary sources, educational visits and hands-on experiences. These opportunities help children develop a deeper understanding of the periods they study and allow them to connect with history in meaningful and memorable ways.

Our History Curriculum

Our History curriculum is structured around three key areas of study:

School and Personal History

Children begin by exploring history within their own lives and school community. They learn about the history of St. Gilbert's, significant events within living memory and the experiences of people within their families and local community. This helps pupils develop an understanding of chronology and historical change over time.

Local and Regional History

Pupils then broaden their understanding by exploring the history of their local area and wider community. They investigate significant people, places and events that have shaped the region and learn how local history connects to national developments.

British and World History

Building upon this foundation, children study important periods, civilisations and events from British and world history. They learn about ancient civilisations, significant historical figures, major events and the ways in which Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world.

Through these areas of study, pupils develop an understanding of:

• Chronology and the passage of time;
• Cause and consequence;
• Continuity and change;
• Similarity and difference;
• Historical significance;
• Historical enquiry and interpretation;
• The use of evidence to support conclusions;
• Connections between local, national and international history.
•  

As they progress through the school, children develop a growing understanding of important historical concepts and vocabulary such as civilisation, empire, parliament, monarchy and democracy. They learn to analyse evidence critically and appreciate that different interpretations of the past may exist.

History and Our Catholic Ethos

As a Catholic school, History provides valuable opportunities for children to reflect upon human experiences, learn from the past and consider how their actions can contribute positively to the future. Our teaching of History is rooted in our Catholic ethos and encourages pupils to recognise the dignity of every person, understand the consequences of human choices and appreciate the importance of justice, peace and reconciliation.

History helps children understand how societies have evolved and how individuals and communities have responded to challenges throughout time. By studying both achievements and mistakes from the past, pupils learn that we can draw important lessons from history and apply them to the world we live in today.

Through the study of historical events, significant individuals and different cultures, children develop a greater understanding of the values that underpin our Catholic faith and are encouraged to reflect on how they can make a positive difference in their own communities.

History and Our Gospel Values

The teaching of History at St. Gilbert's is underpinned by our Gospel Values:

Compassion
Children learn to understand the experiences of people from different periods and backgrounds, developing empathy and respect for those who faced hardship, injustice or discrimination.

Forgiveness
History provides opportunities to explore reconciliation, peace and the importance of learning from past mistakes. Pupils consider how forgiveness has played a role in healing divisions and building stronger communities.

Resilience
Through studying individuals and societies that overcame challenges and adversity, children learn the importance of perseverance, determination and hope.

Courage
Pupils explore the lives of significant people who demonstrated bravery, leadership and conviction in standing up for what they believed was right.

Faith
Children learn about the role faith has played in shaping communities, cultures and historical events, helping them to appreciate the influence of religious beliefs throughout history.

Fullness of Life
By learning about diverse cultures, societies and historical experiences, children develop a broader understanding of the world and their place within it. History encourages pupils to value learning, reflection and personal growth as they seek to live life to the fullest.

By combining rigorous historical enquiry with our Catholic values, we aim to develop thoughtful, reflective and knowledgeable historians who understand the importance of learning from the past in order to build a better future.

St Gilberts have joined the Historical Associaton. They are a charity and the voice for History in the UK. And they help with History teaching and learning. 

Have a look at more History websites below

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 

This year for Black History Month 2023 the theme was celebrating the achievements of Black Women. KS1 and KS2 researched and learned about how Black Women contributed to the society in which they lived. EYFS learned about how Black Women contributed to the music world.

Year 3 children learned about the Stone Age boy.

The Year 2 children thoroughly enjoyed their trip to Stair Case House Museum in Stockport where they learned about how to put out the Great Fire of London.

Year 1 learned about their families. 

                WE WILL REMEMBER 

Thank you for sending in the names of your loved ones who fought in the war.

Pippa from Yr 4 brought in a wonderful photograph of her beloved Great Great  Grandfather Tommy and wrote all about him too.  We will remember them.