“The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future.” – Theodore Roosevelt

History at Handale

At Handale Primary School, we aim to inspire a love of history and stimulate every child’s curiosity about the past. Through engaging and thought-provoking lessons, we encourage children to ask questions, explore evidence, and develop an understanding of how the past has shaped the world we live in today. We believe that history should be exciting, relevant, and accessible to all learners, helping them to make meaningful connections between past and present.

A key part of our history curriculum is helping children to develop a strong sense of identity based on their historical heritage. We want our pupils to understand and appreciate the rich tapestry of stories, traditions, and events that form part of their community, their nation, and the wider world. By exploring their own roots and the people and places that have influenced them, children learn to value their place in history and see themselves as part of an ongoing story.

Our teaching ensures that children gain a secure knowledge of significant events in British history and understand how these moments have shaped society over time. From early British settlements to modern-day developments, pupils explore how life in Britain has evolved and how people, ideas, and innovations have contributed to change. Alongside this, children study key aspects of European history and the wider world, enabling them to make comparisons and recognise the interconnectedness of human experiences across time and place.

Throughout their history learning, children at Handale develop a clear sense of chronology—an understanding of when events happened and how they relate to one another. They learn to sequence events, identify cause and effect, and see the bigger picture of historical development. This foundation helps them to interpret evidence critically and to understand that history is not just about dates and facts, but about people, choices, and consequences.

By the end of their time at Handale, we want our children to have an appreciation of the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, and the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups. They will leave us with a deepened awareness of their own identity, an understanding of the challenges faced by people in different times, and the confidence to use their historical knowledge to make sense of the world around them.

Long Term Plan

Planning

Sequence of Lessons

Retrieval Practice at Handale Primary School

At Handale, we understand the importance of retrieval practice in helping children embed knowledge into their long-term memory. Throughout the school day, pupils are given regular opportunities to revisit and recall prior learning, strengthening their understanding and building confidence.

Our day begins with a Knowledge Check, where pupils engage in short, focused questions designed to activate previous learning. This not only prepares them for the day ahead but also reinforces key concepts and vocabulary.

Teachers use skilful questioning techniques to assess understanding, address misconceptions and connect new learning to what pupils already know. Retrieval practice is woven into lessons across the curriculum, helping children retain and apply knowledge over time.

This consistent approach ensures that pupils are not just learning they are remembering, applying and building upon their knowledge in meaningful ways.