History Curriculum Intent

History is an essential part of a well-rounded education. At Sunnyside, we aim to inspire pupils to be curious and creative thinkers who develop a complex knowledge of local and national history and the history of the wider world. We want pupils to develop the confidence to think critically, ask questions, and be able to explain and analyse historical evidence. 

We believe that the teaching of fun, engaging lessons is essential to enable children to achieve and become life-long historians. Children participate in a range of different learning opportunities such as hook days, drama and historical visits to make links with the past, build knowledge and develop understanding. Through History, we aim to build an awareness of significant events and individuals in global, British and local history and recognise how things have changed over time.  

At Sunnyside we take the children on a journey through time. Pupils persevere to gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of the past. Studying History allows children to appreciate the many reasons why people may behave in the way they do, supporting all pupils to develop empathy for others while providing an opportunity to learn from mankind’s past mistakes.  

At Sunnyside we appreciate the value of enquiry-based learning and therefore foster opportunities for children to be curious and take responsibility for asking questions.  We immerse our children in local history to encourage them to be responsible for their local environment, understanding how the past has impacted on the present. We develop pupils’ understanding of how historians study the past and construct accounts and the skills to carry out their own historical enquiries. 

In History, we aspire to enhance the children's curiosity. We want pupils to understand, enjoy and appreciate the world in which we live. We enable critical thinking and encourage children to ask questions as they focus on Britain’s past and that of the wider world. In history we introduce them to, and revisit, substantive and disciplinary concepts throughout their time at Sunnyside, enabling them to become life-long historians and prepare them for future learning.