“History is a set of lies agreed upon.” – Napolean Bonaparte

The INTENT of learning History at Clearwell

History is a subject that is perfect for providing opportunities for adventures as there are artefacts all around our ancient forest and country.  By introducing children to history at an early age we hope to foster an enthusiasm and sense of curiosity about the past, encouraging the children in their first steps towards being life-long learners.

We believe that History should be an interactive subject which strives to ignite a child’s natural curiosity. We look for opportunities for children to investigate, handle artefacts, pictorial evidence, watch historical footage, take part in role play activities, visit relevant sites and museums and where appropriate, experience oral history, engaging with historical characters and ways of life.  It is all about experiencing adventures to inspire learning whilst they are being taught through investigation and enquiry.  Children are enabled to become confident communicators when asking questions and discussing what they can see in historical sources and be creative when presenting their learning.

How History is taught at Clearwell (Implementation)

• Topics are introduced with an adventure to inspire children
• Across the whole school, children develop enquiry skills in a range of contexts, so they will develop the ability to be independent learners.
• Using the key historical skills they have gained to analyse, question and compare sources of evidence to form their own judgements about the past.
• History links with other areas of the curriculum or the real-world are embraced to provide a more meaningful learning experience.
• Where possible we use our local environment to inspire children.

The IMPACT of learning History at Clearwell

• Children will enjoy history and historical enquiry
• Children will question evidence and not take information at face value
• Children who are able to weigh up evidence and form an opinion about events
• Children will be able to confidently communicate what they find
• Children who are able to gain an insight into the chronology of events that have taken place in Britain and the wider world
• Children will be inspired to continue their learning after it has been taught.